This year in our early years classrooms we have been implementing the Kimochi social and emotional learning program. The Kimochis program helps children understand and manage their feelings in positive ways. The word “Kimochi” means “feeling” in Japanese, and the program uses soft, character-based toys and small pillows that represent different emotions. Through playful lessons and interactive activities, children learn how to identify their feelings, express them respectfully, and respond to others with empathy and kindness. It is widely used in schools because it improves classroom relationships, reduces conflict, and builds skills like self-regulation, communication, and problem-solving, which are essential for both emotional wellbeing and academic success.
The program features a set of characters, each with a distinct personality and a lesson to teach. Cat is confident and likes to lead, but sometimes struggles with being bossy, so Cat helps children learn about patience and forgiveness. Huggtopus is affectionate and loves hugs, but can be a little overwhelming, which teaches kids about respecting boundaries and expressing love appropriately. Cloud has unpredictable moods and shows how tone and body language affect communication, helping children manage sadness and frustration. Bug is shy and sometimes unlucky, but uses humour to cope, teaching bravery and resilience. Lovey Dove is nurturing and proud, guiding children to show compassion and care for others. These characters make emotional learning fun and relatable, giving children a safe way to explore feelings and practice social skills.
Our approach to the program includes dedicated Kimochis lessons within the classroom, and for students who need extra support with social and emotional skills, we offer weekly small-group sessions led by our incredible primary campus, college counsellor, Ms Cara, and our fabulous Year Two teacher, Ms Kim. Students have embraced this curriculum with enthusiasm and enjoy learning about the Kimochis characters, discovering how their stories can help them understand and manage their own emotions and relationships. We are excited to continue using this valuable program in 2026 and hope to expand it to include our Year Three cohort. We are so impressed with our teaching teams and students for responding so positively to this!
