My Child’s Journey
Back to activities

Social and emotional

Teddy feels sad

Explore a simple feeling through a gentle pretend-play story.

5 minGood for 24–35 months

You'll need

  • A soft toy.
  • A large toy ball.

How to play

  1. 1Say, "Teddy feels sad. His ball is missing."
  2. 2Ask, "How could we help?" Offer an idea if needed.
  3. 3Follow your child's choice: look for the ball, sit nearby, or say something kind.
  4. 4Find the ball together and say, "We found it. Teddy feels happy."

Make it easier

Offer two simple ways to help and act out the story together.

Make it harder

Invite your child to create another story with a different feeling.

Skills practiced

  • Emotion words
  • Pretend play
  • Expressing care

Safety

Use toys without small detachable parts. Let your child choose whether to hug the toy.

Follow your child's interest and current abilities. Ages and time are guides; you can simplify, stop earlier, or repeat the game.