---
title: "Words for Big Feelings"
description: "Know and use words for big feelings and calming down such as frustrated, anxious, overwhelmed, disappointed, calm, cope, settle, patience and breathe, and know that naming a feeling is the first step "
canonical: https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/words-for-big-feelings-mt_SeNxOZTHCN
source: https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/words-for-big-feelings-mt_SeNxOZTHCN.md
retrieved: 2026-10-19
---

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# Words for Big Feelings

Know and use words for big feelings and calming down such as frustrated, anxious, overwhelmed, disappointed, calm, cope, settle, patience and breathe, and know that naming a feeling is the first step to calming down.

Subject: Personal & Social Development · Area: Self-Regulation & Resilience · Ages 5 to 8
Page: https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/words-for-big-feelings-mt_SeNxOZTHCN

## Ready when they can

- Use words like 'frustrated', 'anxious', 'overwhelmed', and 'disappointed' accurately to describe how they feel in difficult moments
- Explain what 'calm down' strategies are in their own words and name at least two they have tried (e.g. deep breaths, counting, walking away)
- Distinguish between similar feelings — e.g. explain the difference between being angry and being disappointed

## Lesson: Words for Big Feelings

Everyone feels big feelings sometimes. Mad, sad, or scared are normal. Having a word for the feeling helps you handle it. Words like calm, breathe, and patience can help you settle down.

*(drawing: Say the feeling, then breathe. That helps you feel calmer.)*

**Example.** Mia's hands shook and her face felt hot. She said, 'I feel overwhelmed.' Naming it helped her pick a strategy: three slow breaths.

**Tip.** Angry and disappointed can feel alike. Angry feels hot and loud inside. Disappointed feels more quiet and heavy. Naming the exact feeling helps you pick the right strategy.

**Recap.** Words for feelings are the first tool for calming down.

## Practice

8 questions on this page, each with its working shown.

## Opens up

- [Coping with Life Changes](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/coping-with-life-changes-mt_aS-Gdh-MHx)
- [Vocabulary for resilience and self-management](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/vocabulary-for-resilience-and-self-management-mt_i1kk9HDctI)
- [Simple Calming Strategies](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/simple-calming-strategies-mt_Iwg2diBSyW)
- [Patience and Delayed Gratification](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/patience-and-delayed-gratification-mt_nNDX_jZ-cb)
- [Learning from Mistakes](https://lightmysky.com/learn/personal-and-social-development/learning-from-mistakes-mt_UGf6jICEhs)