Emotional intelligence is increasingly recognised as a crucial factor in a child’s overall development and is the capacity to identify emotions, comprehend their messages, and recognise their impact on those around us.
It also includes the ability to perceive others’ emotions and understand how they feel. This skill enhances one’s ability to manage relationships effectively.
The Importance of Early Development
Research indicates that emotional intelligence begins developing in early childhood. By fostering emotional intelligence from an early age, parents, caregivers, and educators can equip young children with valuable life skills.
Raising emotionally intelligent children is a crucial aspect of parenting. It is one of the most effective ways to equip children with lifelong skills that will help them thrive and succeed. With emotional intelligence, children can better integrate thinking and feeling to make optimal decisions. It is about being smarter with emotions.
Researchers Peter Salavoy and John Mayer[JV1] who introduced the concept of emotional intelligence indicate that, scientifically, emotions come before thoughts. When emotions are intense, they alter brain function, reducing cognitive abilities, decision-making skills, and interpersonal competence. By understanding and managing our own emotions, as well as those of others, we can achieve greater success in all fields.
Approaches To Inculcate Emotional Intelligence in Children
Modelling Positive Behaviour: One of the most effective ways to help young children develop emotional intelligence is by modelling positive behaviour. Children must understand that it is possible to express feelings, listen to others, and navigate conflicts calmly. When children observe parents and caregivers handling challenging situations with patience and understanding, they are more likely to emulate that behaviour.
Open Communication: Engaging in conversations about emotions can help them articulate their feelings in a healthy manner. Teaching children to understand and control their emotions is a critical aspect of fostering emotional intelligence. Additionally, avoiding negative labels is important as they can harm a child’s emotional health and be counterproductive. Labels can induce feelings of shame and inadequacy, hindering learning. Instead, focusing on behaviours and guiding them in expressing their emotions more effectively can help them make considerable progress.
Active Listening & Empathy Development: Listening and showing empathy are essential in nurturing a child’s emotional intelligence. Active listening involves paying attention to children’s thoughts and feelings and responding mindfully. On the other hand, empathy is understanding and sharing their feelings, ensuring they feel heard and understood. Being patient and allowing children to express their emotions without judgment can encourage honesty and openness about their feelings. However, do note that empathy does not mean always agreeing with their viewpoint.
Self-expression: This is a key component of emotional intelligence. Children must be encouraged to share their thoughts and feelings to help them understand and manage their emotions better and develop empathy for others. Create a safe and supportive environment where they can express themselves without fear of judgment. Also, engage in creative activities such as art or music to facilitate emotional expression.
Self-awareness: This is the foundation of emotional intelligence. It involves recognising one’s own emotions and understanding how they influence behaviour and judgment. Guide children develop self-awareness by encouraging them to discuss their feelings and reflect on their actions. Providing a supportive environment for self-expression fosters greater self-awareness.
Praise & Encouragement: Praising effort and progress is an effective strategy for developing emotional intelligence in toddlers and young children. Acknowledging and appreciating their hard work will motivate them to continue striving for success. This approach can boost their confidence and promote a growth mindset. Focusing on process and progress rather than the end goal can help children stay dedicated to their growth, happiness, and success.
Dibber’s Commitment to Emotional Intelligence
Developing emotional intelligence in children is crucial for their overall growth. It provides them with essential skills to handle life’s challenges and form meaningful relationships. Emphasising emotional intelligence not only sets the stage for academic success but also supports their mental and emotional health. Children raised in families that actively focus on fostering emotional intelligence are encouraged to express their emotions, and they feel heard and understood. They receive calm responses, have their opinions valued, and are given unconditional love and appreciation.
Dibber International Nurseries Engaged Educators supplement the efforts made by parents and caregivers by organizing emotional building activities for children and offering them the same, consistent support they receive at home. Together, contributing to raising a conscious and self-aware generation.
With more than 600 schools in over 9 countries, Dibber is the leading early childhood education provider in Northern Europe. Headquartered in Norway, Dibber boasts over 20 years of experience in the early childhood education space. Dibber’s Scandinavian-inspired approach prioritises child-centred learning and holistic development. As they are expanding their reach in the MENA+ region, they remain committed to fostering emotional intelligence in every child they serve in the Emirates and worldwide.
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