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An outlined figure beside a large
speech bubble, symbolising listening to the body’s gentle signals.

What Is My Body Saying?

A Gentle Guide for Adults

Understanding the quiet signals a child may be noticing inside their body.

This guide is here to softly support your understanding of the sensations a child might be exploring through the What Is My Body Saying? toolkit. Each icon reflects a different internal cue — a small message from the body that may relate to emotions, needs, or states of regulation.

There is no single “correct” meaning for any sensation. Children’s bodies speak in many dialects. This guide simply offers possibilities, not conclusions.

It is here to support you, not to judge or correct.

Tight Tummy

This may reflect worry, uncertainty, hunger, excitement, or needing the toilet. Many children feel emotions in their stomach before they can name them.

Supportive response:
Stay close and steady. You might say, “Your tummy feels tight — thank you for noticing.” Offer reassurance, a predictable next step, or a grounding moment without asking the child to explain.

Fast Heart

This may signal excitement, fear, overwhelm, or sensory overload. A fast heartbeat is a common early sign of emotional intensity.

Supportive response:
Acknowledge the sensation gently. You might say, “Your heart feels fast — let’s slow down together.” Invite calm breathing, a pause, or a quieter space if needed.

Tired Eyes

This may reflect fatigue, sensory strain, sadness, or needing a break from visual input. Children often show tiredness through their eyes before their words.

Supportive response:
Offer rest without pressure. You might say, “Your eyes feel tired — it’s okay to take a moment.” Reduce visual demands, soften lighting, or invite a calm activity.

Heavy Head

This may signal overwhelm, stress, dehydration, or needing stillness. A heavy head can also appear when a child is processing big feelings.

Supportive response:
Respond with steadiness. You might say, “Your head feels heavy — let’s slow things down.” Offer water, a quiet space, or gentle co‑regulation.

Wiggly Body

This may reflect restlessness, excitement, dysregulation, or a need for movement. A wiggly body is often a child’s way of managing energy or emotions.

Supportive response:
Honour the movement. You might say, “Your body feels wiggly — let’s help it move safely.” Offer jumping, stretching, shaking, or a sensory break without framing it as misbehaviour.

A Final Note

Children do not need to recognise every signal — or any at all.
Noticing is a skill that grows slowly, with safety and connection.

Your presence is the most important part.

What Is My Body Saying?

A Gentle Guide for Adults

A Final Note

“Feeling safe and understood helps every child feel better.” ❤️