The I Need, I Feel tool is a simple, practical communication resource designed to help children with SEND communicate their emotions, needs and feelings, particularly when they may find it difficult to express themselves verbally.
Using a combination of visual symbols, familiar language and tactile pieces, children can build a simple statement by choosing how they feel and what they need.
The resource features two clear prompts — “I feel” and “I need” — allowing children to communicate messages such as I feel angry – I need space, I feel worried – I need a friend or I feel sad – I need a hug.
The tactile emotion pieces provide an additional sensory and visual element, making the resource accessible to children who benefit from hands-on learning and concrete ways of communicating.
The interchangeable communication tiles cover a range of common emotions, needs, activities and regulation strategies, helping children develop their emotional vocabulary while giving adults a consistent way to support communication.
Key features
- 💬 Supports non-verbal and verbal communication
- ❤️ Helps children identify and communicate emotions and feelings
- 🧩 Provides a simple “I feel / I need” sentence structure
- ✋ Tactile pieces encourage hands-on interaction
- 👀 Clear visuals support visual communication
- 🌿 Includes practical regulation and sensory needs, such as space and quiet
- 🤝 Helps children communicate what support they need from adults and peers
- 🎒 Ideal for classrooms, SEND provision, nurture spaces and home
- 🔄 Reusable, interchangeable tiles allow children to create different messages
- 🧠 Supports the development of emotional literacy, self-advocacy and independence
A simple way to give children a voice when they don’t have the words.
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