The CLUES Approach

Big feelings don’t come with instructions—but they do leave clues.

The CLUES Approach helps young children understand what their feelings are trying to tell them through play, connection, and gentle guidance. 

C — Check Your Body

“Check your body!”
Notice clues like tight fists, fast breathing, or wiggly legs.

L — Look for the Feeling

“Look for the feeling!”
Use pictures and words to figure out how you feel—happy, sad, angry, or worried.

U — Use Your Words

“Use your words!”
Say how you feel or point to a picture when words are hard.

E — Explore What Helps

“Explore what helps!”
Try calming tools like breathing, squeezing, or taking a break.

S — Share With Someone

“Share with someone!”
Talk to a trusted grown-up or friend when you need help. 

How We Teach CLUES

The CLUES Approach is taught through play, repetition, and connection. Children develop emotional skills through everyday activities, utilizing simple language, visuals, and movement.

CLUES is introduced through stories, games, and guided conversations, allowing children to explore feelings in ways that feel safe and familiar. The shared CLUES chant helps children remember the steps and use them when big feelings show up

Check. Look. Use. Explore. Share.

Every feeling has a CLUE! 

Children are encouraged to say the steps aloud to help guide themselves through big emotions.