30 years of helping people name what they feel

Trusted by educators, counsellors, and families to open up conversations about emotions – across ages, cultures, and settings.

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behind the Bears

For three decades, The Bears have been opening up conversations about emotions – in classrooms, counselling rooms, families and communities around the world.

Some conversations are hard to start, especially when emotions are big, complex, or hard to name.

What began as a simple therapy tool in regional Victoria has become one of the most enduring conversation-building resources used across education, counselling and community settings worldwide

The Bears don’t tell people what to feel. Instead, they create a safe space where people can explore emotions in their own way, using images rather than words.

why The Bears have lasted

they don’t tell people what to feel

The Bears have no words. This allows people to bring their own experiences, language and meaning – making them adaptable across ages and cultures.

they work wherever conversations are hard

From early learning environments to adult counselling, The Bears are used wherever people need a gentler way to talk about emotions.

they make difficult conversations safer

By focusing attention on the cards rather than the person, The Bears reduces pressure and defensiveness – helping conversations unfold more naturally.

“The Bears will remain an essential tool in my work as a case manager for disadvantaged children and families. I plan to keep using these cards to support siblings in finding belonging within their group, family, and community.”

Jessica Flakemore Counsellor

“I work with adults and children facing stress and life challenges and I’m continually amazed by the impact of The Bears cards. Their playful illustrations create relaxation and engagement, which encourages honest expression without judgment. I’m frequently thanked for the outcomes, but the credit truly belongs to The Bears!”

Patrice Thomas Mindful Connections NSW

“I’ve been using The Bears with a group of 7-year-olds to explore feelings. I lay the cards out and ask each child to choose one that reflects how they feel. The game is fun, encourages teamwork, and helps children learn to recognize and name emotions. I’m excited to try more of your resources!”

Nada Stadtlander, Auckland (NZ)

what are The Bears

The Bears are a set of illustrated cards designed to help people explore emotions in a gentle, non-confrontational way.

With no words on the cards, people are free to intepret each image through their own experiences and feelings – making The Bears useful across a wide range of personal and professional settings.