Messages From Your Body: Body Check-In Cards for Kids (Interoception, Printable PDF)

Hungry, thirsty, tired, need the toilet, or just feeling wobbly? Body messages can be hard to notice, especially for children who are autistic, have ADHD or dyspraxia, or who simply need more help tuning in. These cards give children simple, literal words and a friendly guide.

WHAT’S INSIDE (9-page printable PDF)

• Your Body Sends Messages: a page explaining the three kinds of body messages (balance and movement, where your body is, and inside feelings)
• 8 Inside Feelings cards (tummy rumbling, dry mouth, heavy eyes, needing the toilet, too hot or cold, fast heartbeat, wobbly tummy, something hurts)
• 8 Body Messages cards (wiggly, heavy legs, tight hands or shoulders, bumping things, wobbly, calm and comfy)
• 8 What Can I Do? cards (drink water, snack, rest, toilet, move, quiet spot, slow breath, ask for help)
• Body map to colour in
• Daily body check-in chart
• Grown-up guide

WHY FAMILIES AND TEACHERS LIKE IT

• Short, literal, calm wording
• Plain pastel layouts that print clearly
• A friendly turtle guide children can come to know
• Cards can be shown or pointed to instead of spoken

GREAT FOR

Home, calm corners, small groups, tutoring and support sessions. Ages 4 to 9.

HOW TO USE IT

Print on A4 at 100%, cut along the dashed lines and laminate if you like. For US Letter, choose “fit to page”. Start with a few cards your child already knows, such as hungry, thirsty and tired, and add more over time.

LICENCE

One licence covers one family, or one teacher or practitioner using the pack with their own children, class or group. Please don’t share the files, resell them or post them online. Colleagues are welcome to buy their own copy.

PLEASE NOTE

These cards are a supportive tool, not medical or clinical advice. If you have concerns about a child’s toileting, eating, drinking, pain, balance or wellbeing, please speak to a GP, occupational therapist, SENCO or other qualified professional.