Experienced SENCo Lynn How introduces practical, evidence-informed activities to support children with SEMH needs
A new professional resource for primary educators aims to make emotional regulation more accessible, engaging and practical for children through a cast of relatable characters known as the “Feelings Furballs”.
In The Feelings Furballs: Emotional Regulation Activities and Ideas for the Classroom, veteran teacher, SENCo and wellbeing specialist Lynn How provides educators with a toolkit of classroom strategies, activities and discussion prompts designed to help children recognise, express and regulate their emotions.
Publishing on 21 May 2026, the book introduces a range of child-friendly characters including Angry Addi, Furious Fyla, Frustrated Fenn, Anxious Amiq and Calm Cal, each representing different emotional states commonly experienced by primary-aged children. Through games, reflection activities and therapeutic conversations, the “furballs” help children build emotional literacy in ways that are approachable and non-threatening.
With increasing awareness of children’s mental health needs in schools, the book is designed to support teachers, SENCOs, LSAs and pastoral staff working with pupils experiencing social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges. The activities can be used both in whole-class settings and one-to-one interventions, complementing existing emotional regulation frameworks such as Zones of Regulation and wider whole-school wellbeing approaches.
How brings more than 24 years of experience in primary education, leadership and SEND provision to the project. Holding an MA in Education alongside NASENCO and NPQH qualifications, she has become a respected voice in the wellbeing and SEND space through her training, mentoring and online platforms. Her professional community includes more than 10,000 followers on social media, and she has already delivered training to hundreds of SENCOs across the UK.
“The Feelings Furballs is a gem,” said educational psychologist Dr Ali D’Amario, co-author of The School Mental Health Response Handbook. “It combines relatable, likeable characters with therapeutic, evidence-based activities that build emotional literacy and regulation. Lynn’s approach normalises all emotions and extends vocabulary through creative, engaging tasks.”
Clinical psychologist Dr Fiona Zandt also praised the book’s practical appeal for educators. “Packed with playful ideas and relatable characters, The Feelings Furballs provides educators with fun and meaningful ways to help children develop emotional awareness and regulation,” she said.
The publication arrives at a time when schools are increasingly prioritising mental health and wellbeing within their strategic planning, particularly following government guidance encouraging a “whole-school” approach to emotional wellbeing. By combining accessible theory with ready-to-use classroom ideas, The Feelings Furballs seeks to give educators practical tools they can implement immediately.
The book follows growing demand for evidence-informed wellbeing resources in schools. Comparable titles in the category have demonstrated strong uptake among educators, reflecting sustained interest in practical SEMH support materials for primary settings.
The Feelings Furballs: Emotional Regulation Activities and Ideas for the Classroom will be available in trade paperback from 21 May 2026, priced at £24.99.
Book Information
The Feelings Furballs: Emotional Regulation Activities and Ideas for the Classroom
By Lynn How
Publication date: 21 May 2026
Paperback | £24.99
ISBN: 9781805017721
Available now: https://uk.jkp.com/products/the-feelings-furballs?utm_medium=paid&utm_source=educator&utm_campaign=feelings-furballs
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