The MindMate Journal (KS2 Edition) is a free, child-friendly printable workbook designed to support the emotional wellbeing and mental health of children aged 7 to 11. Created by Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust, this engaging resource helps kids understand anxiety, explore their feelings, and learn calming strategies in a structured, age-appropriate way.
Packed with CBT-informed activities, this workbook guides children through understanding emotions, identifying worries, and building resilience. It includes fun reflection exercises, breathing techniques, body-based calming strategies, and opportunities for creative expression.
Key topics and tools include:
What is anxiety? – Learn how anxiety affects our body, thoughts and feelings
Daily mood tracking and emotional check-ins
The Worry Tree – a simple decision-making tool for managing worry
Sorting practical vs hypothetical worries
Grounding techniques and 5-4-3-2-1 sensory activity
Creative activities like My Happy Jar, Positive Thinking Journal, and Calm Box ideas
Relaxation exercises like “Meerkat Paw”, “Chew That Carrot”, and “Elephant Stretch”
Self-esteem building with positive affirmations and kindness logs
Physical exercise and wellbeing reflections
Perfect for use in:
Primary school classrooms, PSHE lessons, and calm corners
Nurture groups and SEND settings
Therapy sessions and early help support
Foster care and family emotional wellbeing work
Home use by parents, carers or educators supporting anxious children
This workbook encourages children to recognise how they feel, understand their emotional responses, and develop helpful coping strategies to feel more confident, calm, and in control. With its colourful layout and engaging approach, the MindMate Journal is a brilliant addition to any child mental health toolkit.
