In the hustle and bustle of a school day, it's easy to overlook the emotional states that children bring with them into the classroom. Yet, starting the day in a regulated way is crucial for their capacity to learn and thrive. A daily check-in can be a transformative practice, offering opportunities for self-regulation and access to an Emotionally Available Adult for co-regulation. This simple routine can help children settle into a learning mindset, ready to absorb and engage.

Understanding the Emotional Landscape

Children arrive at school with a myriad of emotions, often hidden beneath the surface. As educators and caregivers, it's important to recognize that we may not be aware of what has transpired in their lives before they step into our classrooms. This is especially true after weekends or long breaks. A daily check-in provides a structured time to ensure everyone feels safe, heard, and valued, setting a positive tone for the day.

Setting the Tone: A Warm Welcome

Begin each day with a warm greeting for every student. A simple "good morning" or using each student's name can make a significant difference. Consider sharing a positive affirmation to uplift the mood and foster a sense of belonging.

Establishing Routine: Emotional Scales and Sharing

Incorporate visual aids like mood meters or emotion scales where students can indicate their feelings. Allow time for students to share their emotions, either verbally in a circle time format or through written responses on sticky notes or journals. This practice not only helps students articulate their feelings but also builds a supportive classroom community.

Reflective Questions: Encouraging Personal Insight


Use open-ended questions to prompt reflection, such as:

  • "How are you feeling today?"
  • "Can you share something that made you feel that way?"
  • "What can we do to make today better?"


Encourage students to reflect silently or jot down their thoughts. This introspection can be followed by peer sharing, where students discuss their feelings with a partner or small group, fostering empathy and understanding.

Facilitating Group Discussions

Create a safe space for class discussions where students can volunteer to share their experiences. Activities like feeling check-ins, breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness, or mindful colouring can be integrated to enhance emotional awareness and regulation.

Teacher's Role: Validation and Support

Acknowledge and validate students' feelings. For instance, "I understand that you’re feeling anxious about the upcoming test. It’s okay to feel that way." Offer support and strategies for managing emotions, such as breathing techniques or mindfulness exercises.

Closing the Check-In: Positive Closure

Conclude the check-in with a positive activity, like a short mindfulness exercise, a quick game, or a gratitude-sharing moment. Let students know you are available for one-on-one conversations if they need further support.

Consistency is Key

Make emotional check-ins a consistent part of the daily routine. This regularity assures students that they have a dedicated time each day to express and manage their emotions, reinforcing a stable and supportive environment.

Final Thoughts

During check-in time, your role is to hold the space. It can be challenging when students bring difficult feelings, but remember, this time is not for fixing problems. It's about allowing, accepting, validating, and reflecting back. You want the child to feel that you are a "safe" grown-up who is not intimidated by big or difficult feelings.


By integrating daily check-ins, educators and caregivers can significantly impact children's emotional wellbeing, creating a nurturing environment where every child feels seen, heard, and supported.