Interoception Body Check Chart for Kids | Free Printable (2024)

Working with children, I’ve found that many face challenges in regulating their emotions, often struggling with body awareness and mindfulness. One effective tool I’ve discovered is the interoception body check chart, which can make a significant difference in helping kids understand and manage their internal sensations. This chart serves as a guide to help children become more attuned to their body’s signals, fostering better emotional regulation. Download your interoception body check charts below!

Interoception is the ability to sense what’s happening inside your body, such as hunger, thirst, and pain. Interoception body check charts are visual aids that help children identify and understand their physical sensations. The simple drawings of the body allow children to indicate where they feel sensations, such as “tightness” in their chest or “butterflies” in their stomach.

Benefits of Using Body Check Charts

1. Improving Body Awareness: Children who struggle with emotional regulation may find it difficult to be aware of their physical sensations. By using these charts, kids become more in tune with their bodies and learn to understand and identify their emotions.
2. Emotional Regulation: Connecting physical sensations with emotions is an essential step in learning to regulate emotions. Interoception body charts can help with this. For instance, a child who feels “tightness” in their chest when anxious can take deep breaths to release the tension and calm themselves down.
3. Managing Anxiety: Kids with anxiety often struggle with physical sensations such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, and trembling. Using body charts can help children identify and manage these symptoms, which can reduce their anxiety levels.
4. Increasing Mindfulness: Interoception body charts encourage children to pay attention to their bodies and be more mindful. This can help them be more present in the moment and reduce their stress levels.

Read more: What Is Emotional Dysregulation?

How To Use Interoception Body Check Charts With Children

1. Explain the Chart: Before using the chart, it’s important to explain to your child what interoception is and how the chart works. Use simple language and answer any questions your child may have.
2. Identifying Sensations: Encourage your child to identify any physical sensations they are feeling on the interception body check chart. For example, if they feel “tightness” in their chest, they can indicate this on the chart.
3. Connecting Sensations with Emotions: Help your child to connect their physical sensations with their emotions. For example, “tightness” in the chest may be a symptom of anxiety.
4. Coping Strategies: Once your child has identified their physical sensations and emotions, help them to find coping strategies. For example, if they feel “tightness” in their chest when they are anxious, they can learn to take deep breaths to release the tension and calm themselves down.

Interoception body check charts are a valuable tool for parents of children with emotional regulation struggles. They help children to become more aware of their physical sensations, regulate their emotions, manage anxiety, and increase mindfulness. If you have a child who struggles with emotional regulation, consider using interoception body charts to help them.

Helpful Resources

• Kelly Mahler, OTD, OTR/L
• STAR Institute
• Sensory Processing Disorder Australia

FAQ’s About Interoception Body Check Chart

What is an interoception body check chart?
An interoception body check chart is a visual tool that helps children identify and understand their internal bodily sensations.
How can an interoception body check chart benefit children?
It helps kids become more aware of their physical cues, leading to better emotional regulation and self-awareness.
At what age can children start using an interoception body check chart?
Children as young as 4 or 5 can begin using simplified versions, with more detailed charts appropriate for older kids and teens.
How often should a child use an interoception body check chart?
Ideally, children should use the chart daily or during times of stress to build consistent body awareness.
Can interoception body check charts help children with special needs?
Yes, these charts can be particularly beneficial for children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing disorders in understanding their bodily signals.

This post was originally published on 02/14/2023. It was updated on 08/15/2024.

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