FAQs

The Understanding Me Cards are a psychology‑informed tool that helps young people aged 8–16 explore the needs sitting beneath their behaviour, thoughts and feelings. Through a simple sorting activity, pupils identify the statements that feel true for them and choose the one(s) that feels most important for understanding their experience.

There are 61 cards all together. 56 statement cards organised into 7 categories, with 8 cards in each category. Each category represents a core psychological need area. Then 3 heading cards - 'True for Me', 'Not True for Me', 'One(s) most important for understanding me'. There is one 'Looking Forward' card to complete after the sorting task, and one information card with the QR code for the instructions, interventions, and a quick reference for the colour categories.

The cards are designed for children and young people aged 8-16. The language is simple enough for children aged 8, but the concepts are appropriate and relatable for children aged up to 16. The graphics support understanding for children and young people of all ages, but are also designed to not feel too child-like or patronising for adolescents.

Both KS2 and Secondary sets use the same underlying categories of need: Autonomy & Independence Learning & Confidence Self-esteem & Identity Belonging & Relationships Sensory Needs Body & Health Safety & Regulation These categories are grounded in established psychological theory and reflect the core areas where unmet needs often drive behaviour.