📝 When I Feel Sad – A Visual Calm-Down Story for Toddlers
Big feelings like sadness can be hard for little ones to understand. That’s why I created this gentle, toddler-friendly visual story to help children recognize sadness and learn simple ways to feel better.
In this story, we follow a child who feels sad when plans change, when they miss someone, or when things feel confusing. Through soft visuals and calm words, the story shows that it's okay to feel sad — and offers ways to feel safe and supported, like taking a break, cuddling a soft toy, or asking for a hug.
Recognizing sadness in the body
Naming and expressing emotions
Finding calm-down strategies
Learning that sadness is normal and safe to express
✨ Includes Reflective “I Wonder…” Questions:
The printable version also includes gentle “I wonder…” questions that help toddlers and preschoolers reflect on their feelings in a safe and open-ended way.
These questions invite calm conversations like:
I wonder what my face looks like when I feel sad?
I wonder what helps me feel better?
I wonder who I can talk to when I feel sad?
I wonder if other people feel sad sometimes too?
I wonder what I can do when I feel sad next time?
Perfect for storytime, quiet moments, or circle time.
🛒 Get the Printable Version:
Want to use this story in your home, daycare, or classroom?
You can get the printable version (with visual pages + reflection questions) here:
👉 When I Feel Sad – Toddler Social Story on Etsy
📌 Created by KidRoutine & Play
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