Anger Thermometer for Kids: How to Use One (Free Printable)

An anger thermometer is a simple visual tool that helps children understand their anger. It shows anger as levels, from calm at the bottom to exploding at the top, so children can see that anger builds up gradually and learn to spot it before it boils over.

This guide explains how an anger thermometer works, what each level looks like, and how to use one at home or in the classroom. There's a free printable version below, with a colour-in thermometer and a calm-down plan.

What is an anger thermometer?

An anger thermometer (sometimes called a feelings thermometer) is a picture of a thermometer split into levels. The bottom is calm. Each level up is a bit more angry, until the top, where anger feels too big to control. Children use it to say, or point to, how angry they feel, and to think about what helps at each level.

It's a common tool in schools, ELSA sessions and counselling, and it works well at home. It's most useful for children aged about 4 to 9, though older children can use a more detailed version.

Why it helps

Young children often experience anger as all or nothing: they're fine, and then suddenly they're shouting. An anger thermometer shows them that anger usually builds in steps, and that there are earlier moments when they can do something about it.

It also gives children and adults a shared language. "I'm at a 3" is much easier to say than explaining a feeling, and it tells you quickly how much help is needed. Over time, children get better at noticing their own warning signs, which is the first step in learning to manage anger.

The five levels

Our printable uses five levels. You can rename them using words your child already uses.

1. Calm. Relaxed body, easy breathing, able to think and play.
2. A bit annoyed. Something's bothering them. They might sigh, frown or go quiet.
3. Frustrated. Face getting hot, voice getting louder, fists or jaw tightening. This is the most useful level to notice, because there's still time to cool down.
4. Angry. Shouting, stomping, crying, finding it hard to listen.
5. Exploding. The anger has taken over. Children at this level can't think clearly or use strategies on their own, and need a calm adult to help them get safe.

How to use an anger thermometer

1. Introduce it on a calm day

Children can't learn a new tool in the middle of a meltdown. Look at the thermometer together when everyone is relaxed. Colouring it in is a good way to start.

2. Talk about body clues

Ask what each level feels like in their body. A hot face, a tummy ache, tight hands or wanting to hit something are all common. Write their answers next to each level. Children often notice body changes before they can name the feeling.

3. Make a calm-down plan

Choose a few things that help at the lower levels, such as slow breathing, a drink of water, squeezing a cushion or going to a calm corner. Agree what a grown-up will do at the top levels: stay close, keep words short and help them get safe.

4. Practise and check in

Use the thermometer in everyday moments, not just when things go wrong. "Where are you on the thermometer?" takes a few seconds and builds the habit. Share your own examples too: "I was at a 3 in that traffic. I did some deep breaths."

5. Reflect afterwards

Once everyone is calm, talk about what happened. What number did they get to? What happened just before? What helped, or might help next time? Keep it short and kind, and update the calm-down plan if you learn something new.

Calm-down ideas for each level

• Levels 1 and 2: name the feeling, take a break from the activity, get a drink, move about.
• Level 3: slow breathing (in for four, out for six), squeeze and release fists, count to 10, go to a calm space, tell someone "I'm getting cross".
• Levels 4 and 5: fewer words, more calm. Keep everyone safe, stay nearby, lower your voice and breathe slowly yourself. Talking can wait.

For more ideas, see our guides to calming breathing exercises for kids and calm down corner ideas, and our wider guide on how to help a child with anger.

Using an anger thermometer in the classroom

A large thermometer on the wall or in a calm corner gives the whole class a shared way to talk about anger. Some teachers give each child a small personal thermometer with a peg or arrow they can move. Keep it low-key: the aim is to help children notice and ask for help, not to label or monitor them in front of others.

Things to avoid

• Using it as a punishment. Being at a 4 isn't "bad". All feelings are okay; it's what we do with them that matters.
• Asking questions mid-meltdown. At the top levels, children can't think it through. Wait until they're calm.
• Expecting quick results. Most children need weeks of practice before they start using it on their own.

When to look for more support

Anger is a normal emotion and outbursts are common in young children. But if angry outbursts are very frequent or intense, put your child or others at risk, or are affecting school and friendships, talk to your GP or your child's school. In the UK, YoungMinds runs a free Parents Helpline for advice about a child's mental health.

Anger thermometer FAQs

What age is an anger thermometer for?

Most children from about 4 to 9 can use a simple five-level thermometer. Younger children can point to a face or colour. Older children and teens can use a 1 to 10 scale with more detail.

What's the difference between an anger thermometer and a feelings thermometer?

They work the same way. An anger thermometer focuses on anger. A feelings thermometer can be used for any feeling that builds up, such as worry or excitement.

How many levels should an anger thermometer have?

Three to five levels suits most young children. Five gives enough detail to spot the middle "frustrated" stage, which is the best time to use a calm-down strategy.

Does an anger thermometer work for children with SEND?

Many children with additional needs find visual tools helpful. You may need to keep it simpler, use pictures or symbols instead of words, and practise more often. Your child's school or SENCo can help adapt it.

This article is general information for parents and educators, not medical advice. If you're worried about your child's mental health, please speak to your GP or a qualified professional.