Donnell the Disgusted Dingo Puppet helps children put words and shape to a feeling that often shows up as a scrunched-up face, a turned-away body, or sudden outbursts: disgust. Many children experience disgust around unfair treatment, unsafe situations, certain foods, or sensory overload, but they rarely have language for it. Donnell turns that confusion into clear, teachable moments.

In our emotional intelligence education programs, we use Donnell to show that disgust is a protective signal. Through stories and role-play, he reacts to things that are truly unsafe or unkind, and children help him decide what to do next. Together we sort through questions like, "Is Donnell just annoyed, or is something actually wrong here?" That distinction teaches kids how to listen to their bodies while also thinking things through.

Teachers find Donnell especially useful during classroom conflicts and discussions about fairness, bullying, or unhealthy habits. With the puppet, students can safely say, "Donnell feels disgusted when..." and explore boundaries, respect, and personal preferences. This reduces shaming of others ("You're gross") and replaces it with more thoughtful language ("I feel disgusted when that happens").

Families can use Donnell around the dinner table, during hygiene routines, or when media and real-life events bring up strong reactions. Children practice expressing what feels "too much" and learn strategies to calm their bodies while staying safe and respectful.

Because The Feeling Friends characters are culturally inclusive and story-driven, Donnell the Disgusted Dingo Puppet also supports deeper conversations about witnessing injustice or hurtful behavior. We can guide children to ask, "What does this feeling tell me about what is right and wrong?" and "How can I respond in a way that helps, not harms?" Donnell becomes more than a character; he is a classroom and home ally for managing strong reactions without letting them take over.