A Pony-Inspired Visual Resource for Emotional Awareness & Regulation

Helping children recognise their feelings, understand their energy levels and discover ways to respond to what their bodies need.

The Pony Feeling Thermometer is a colourful, child-friendly visual resource that uses the natural movements of ponies to help children explore emotional awareness, self-regulation and body cues.

Through four familiar pony paces, children are encouraged to notice how they are feeling, recognise changes in their energy and explore simple strategies to support regulation.

Meet the Four Pony Paces

• 🔵 Resting Pony – Low Energy: Feeling calm, sleepy or quiet. Breathe Slowly.

• 🟢 Walking Pony – Calm State: Feeling steady, curious and ready. Move Slowly.

• 🟠 Trotting Pony – Alert Energy: Feeling excited, chatty or busy. Take Deep Breaths.

• 🔴 Galloping Pony – High Energy: Feeling fast, loud or full of energy. Stop and Pause.

Supporting Learning Through Play

Designed for use by educators, families and practitioners, the Pony Feeling Thermometer provides a gentle, visual way to begin conversations about feelings and regulation without labelling emotions as good or bad.

Children can identify their current pony pace, share what they notice in their bodies and explore supportive strategies alongside a trusted adult.

Ideal for:

• Kindergarten and early childhood learning environments

• Calm spaces and regulation stations

• Play-based wellbeing experiences

• Individual or small-group reflection

• Family conversations about emotions and energy

What is Included:

• 1 × Pony Feeling Thermometer visual poster

• 4 × Individual Pony Pace Cards (Resting, Walking, Trotting and Galloping)

Format: Digital PDF Download

Created by Dianna.K | Growing Confidence. Building Capability. Strengthening Connections.