In our 3–6 classrooms, the Kimochis approach is fully aligned with our commitment to supporting children in understanding and expressing their emotions on a daily basis. Each week, we have the pleasure of welcoming Mrs. Hoffman, a parent of two children at the school, who is also involved in the Painting Game (ages 6–12) and the adolescents’ micro-economy. She visits each class to introduce this tool in a lively and age-appropriate way.
At each session, she presents a Kimochis character, each representing a specific personality trait. Children often naturally recognize themselves in these characters, which makes identification and engagement easier.
These characters then become powerful tools for reflection and discussion. Through role-play inspired by real classroom situations—conflict, frustration, joy, or worry—children are invited to express what they feel and think about different ways to respond.
To support them, simple and practical “communication keys” are introduced: how to get someone’s attention, use an appropriate tone of voice, choose helpful words, or calm a situation. These tools provide a valuable foundation for developing social skills from an early age.
Emotions are also made visible and tangible through small cushions representing and naming each feeling. Children can handle them, choose them, and associate them with real-life situations, helping them put words to their experiences. These tools remain available in the classroom for everyday use.
By working in this way, children gradually learn to take a step back from their inner experiences. The goal is not to suppress emotions—quite the opposite—but to recognize, understand, and avoid being overwhelmed by them.
Little by little, children discover that emotions can become resources: they help them understand themselves better, adjust their behavior, and act in more constructive ways—for themselves and for the group. Over time, this work contributes to creating a calmer classroom environment where everyone finds their place and learns to live together.
