Help students notice how emotions affect their thinking, body signals, and behavior with this hands-on emotional regulation brain thermometer. It introduces three color-coded stages—Calm Brain, Warning Brain, and Hijacked Brain—and supports practice recognizing escalation and seeking help.

What's Included

• A printable color-coded brain thermometer with a movable arrow and three lift-the-flap sections describing brain, body, and behavior clues.
• An assembly and implementation guide with discussion prompts and ways to introduce each stage.
• Practice ideas for identifying a character’s stage, sorting clues into brain/body/behavior, naming personal warning signs, and considering coping strategies or trusted-adult support.

How to Use It

After printing, assemble the tool with scissors, a small brass fastener, and glue or tape; lamination is recommended for the main brain and arrow. Optional Velcro dots are also listed. Introduce and model it during calm moments, then use it in classroom SEL lessons, counseling sessions, small groups, brief check-ins, or a regulation area. Students can move the arrow and lift the flaps to revisit the information.

Skills and Learning

The resource encourages emotional awareness and self-regulation by helping learners notice early warning signs, connect physical sensations and behavior with emotional intensity, and consider when to pause, use a strategy, or ask for support. Examples of strategies in the guide include taking a break, breathing slowly, moving to a quieter space, and getting a drink of water. It emphasizes that all emotions are normal and that students may need adult support during intense moments.

Audience and Notes

Designed for student instruction and support; the PDF does not specify a grade range, so consider students’ comprehension and developmental needs when introducing the vocabulary. The companion scenario-sorting resource mentioned in the guide is separate and is not included. This is a teaching tool, not a behavior rating system.