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Effective Tips for Raising Emotionally Intelligent Children
Emotional intelligence may be referred to as a set of skills related to monitoring an individual’s own as well as other’s emotions, and the ability to guide one’s thoughts and actions using these emotions. Studies suggest that emotions are critical to our memory, attention, and learning. It also impacts our physical and mental health, and the ability to build and maintain relationships with others.
For both adults as well as children, emotional intelligence directly relates to many important outcomes. It has been observed that emotionally intelligent children are more engaged in school, better able to pay attention, are more empathic, and have more positive relationships. Moreover, children with higher emotional intelligence generally earn higher grades and are more capable of regulating their behaviour. When these children grow up to become adults, they can build better relationships and experience lower job-related stress.
Many modern-day parents want their children to be emotionally intelligent because this is probably the most effective way to instill skills that will help them thrive throughout their lives. As briefly mentioned earlier, emotional intelligence is the ability of an individual to recognise, understand, and manage his or her own as well as others’ emotions. It can be difficult for parents to help a child develop emotional intelligence, and it requires a proactive approach. Please remember that in order to raise an emotionally intelligent child, you must equip him or her to understand and express their emotions in a productive and healthy manner.
Discussed below are a few ways to develop and nurture emotional intelligence in your child.
Positive Behaviour Modelling: This is one of the best ways for parents to help their kids develop emotional intelligence. As parents, you should be able to make your children understand that they can express their feelings, listen to people around them, and work through any difficulty they face. When they see their parents responding to difficult circumstances with understanding and patience, they are also likely to emulate the same. Parents should also take time to understand the feelings of their children and inspire them to express themselves in the right manner.
Avoid Negative Labels: For the development of emotional intelligence, it is also essential for children to understand and control emotions. This can be done best by avoiding negative labels. Labelling a child as ‘stupid’ or ‘lazy’ creates a sense of inadequacy and shame, which can make it extremely difficult for the child to learn. Instead, children should be taught to express their emotions in a better way.
Praise their Efforts: Another excellent way to help your children develop emotional intelligence is by praising all their efforts. Always motivate them by recognising and appreciating their hard work. Instead of focusing only on the end result, praising their progress can help foster a growth mindset.
Listen and Empathise: By listening and showing empathy, parents can play a hugely positive role in developing emotional intelligence in their children. Please ensure that your child is heard and understood. Allow your children to express their emotions and listen patiently without being judgemental.
These are just a few of the many things you can do to develop emotional intelligence in your child. If you have more questions about your child’s early childhood development needs, please contact our expert educators at Valley Heights Preschool Long Day Care Centre.