Quick answer

Use Lovevery Emotion Match Cards to play a simple matching game that helps your toddler name and recognize feelings like happy, sad, and surprised.

Why matching emotions matters for toddlers

Toddlers experience big feelings but often lack the words to describe them. Matching a facial expression to a named emotion builds the foundation for empathy and self-awareness.

The Emotion Match Cards are designed as a component for compatible Lovevery kits. They work best when you pair them with everyday moments—like pointing out a friend's smile or a character's frown in a book.

How to play the feeling matching game

  1. 1. Lay out two cards face up: Start with two Emotion Match Cards that show distinct feelings, such as happy and sad. Place them in front of your toddler where they can see both clearly. Common mistake: showing all six cards at once. Two cards keep the activity focused and frustration-free.
  2. 2. Name the emotion and make the face: Point to the happy card and say, 'This is happy.' Then make a happy face yourself. Encourage your toddler to copy your expression. Repeat for the sad card. Checkpoint: If your toddler looks confused, slow down and exaggerate your facial expression.
  3. 3. Ask your toddler to find the feeling: Say, 'Show me happy.' Let your toddler point to or pick up the matching card. Celebrate their choice with a clap or a hug, even if they pick the wrong one—just gently guide them back. Common mistake: correcting too quickly. Give them a few seconds to decide before stepping in.
  4. 4. Add a third card for variety: Once your toddler can match two emotions reliably, introduce a third card like 'surprised.' Repeat the naming and matching process. This builds their emotional vocabulary gradually. Checkpoint: Watch for signs of boredom—if they lose interest, take a break and return later.

Product details

  • Emotion Match Cards (set of 6): Set includes six cards for matching and learning about emotions. Six cards give you just enough variety to introduce basic feelings without overwhelming your toddler.

    Emotion Match Cards (set of 6)

    Emotion Match Cards (set of 6)