Learning center
For kids · ages 6–12 · ~4 min

🌡️Anger Thermometer

Where on the scale is your anger right now — and what helps at this level?

Notice the size of anger AND match it to the right cool-down strategy.

Anger management for kids

The Anger Thermometer is a free interactive anger management activity for kids ages 6–12. It teaches one of the most important regulation skills — matching the size of your cool-down strategy to the size of your anger. A foundational tool for anger management for kids in counseling, classrooms, and at home.

Anger Thermometer
How hot is my anger right now?
Level 1 · Cool
I feel okay. My body is calm.
Cool-down ideas
  • Stay curious about what's around you
  • Notice you feel calm

Notice this — this is your calm self.

Common questions

What is an anger thermometer used for?

It teaches kids to rate how big their anger is on a 1–6 scale and pair that level with appropriately sized coping strategies. Catching anger early (level 2–3) is far easier than waiting for an eruption (level 5–6).

Why don't deep breaths always work for an angry child?

Because anger lives in the body. At a level 5, the body needs to MOVE (stomp, push, run) before breathing can do its work. Matching strategy to intensity is the missing piece in most anger curricula.

How can I help my child use this?

Practice rating during calm moments first ('where's your thermometer right now?'). Once the language is automatic, you can use it during early anger — and the child can catch it before it climbs.

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