Learning Emotions With Face Playdough Mats

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We all have emotions. Emotions are even sometimes too complex for adults to try and grasp, so can you imagine how difficult it is for children who don’t understand?

These playdough mats simply look like blank faces, which can be exciting in itself. They are not just blank faces, though. It is a game that can help children learn and understand what emotions are and how they make us feel.

Need more than just one activity to help with emotions? Take a look at our Emotions Daily Trackers & Games Printable Pack

Playdough Mats For Learning About Emotions

The prep for this activity is a one time thing. Once you prep it, it’s ready to go – forever!

You will only need a few things for this activity.

Laminator or Dry Erase Pockets
Playdough
Optional: Dry Erase Marker 

I prefer to either laminate or use dry erase pockets. This will allow you to use the printables over and over. This is also important when using playdough. Playdough will stick to plain paper, but will not stick to lamination or dry erase pockets!

Using playdough will add an element of fine motor skill strengthening to the activity, which is always a good element to mix in!

If you prefer not to use playdough, or want to mix it up, dry erase markers work great as well!

Once the dice is printed, cut it out and fold along the lines then tape or glue shut. It should be a cube.

Check out these 20+ Playdough Learning Ideas!

Either have the child roll the dice or roll it yourself, whichever emotion the die lands on, this is what the child will create on their face mat. If it says sad, use playdough or a dry erase marker to create a  sad face on the mat. This continues until all of the emotions are included or when the child is done with the activity.

Teaching children about emotions is important. It is important that children understand that their feelings are valid and meaningful.

Knowing the different emotions can help relieve anxiety for children and help as they grow up and feel even stronger emotions.

Need more ideas for teaching kids about emotions? Check this out!