Feelings & body-signals chart

Five levels, the body signals that come with each, and what actually helps at that level.

For: Parents, teachers, autistic adults · Free to print, copy and share · No sign-up

How do I help my autistic child name their feelings?

Pair each feeling with the body signal that comes with it and one thing that helps at that level. Naming a feeling is much easier when there is a physical cue to attach it to — a fast heart, hot face, tight hands — and when the chart says what to do next, not just what to call it.

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The PDF is built in your browser on the next screen — nothing is saved or emailed.

How to use it

  1. Fill in the body signals in your child's own words, not clinical ones.
  2. Add one or two things that genuinely help at each level.
  3. Point to the chart when things are calm so it is familiar before it is needed.
  4. Let them point instead of speaking. Pointing counts as communicating.
  5. Never ask them to identify a feeling at the peak — use it on the way up or down.
  6. Cut out the small cards for the school bag or the calm corner.

Things worth knowing

Want this made for your situation?

Nova has in-the-moment regulation tools and can suggest what to put in the 'what helps' column for your situation.

Try Nova's calm tools

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This sheet is a practical support, not medical, legal, or diagnostic advice.