6 Signs your Child has ‘High Emotional Intelligence’ and why it’s a Good Thing
Source: https://www.msn.com/
As a parent, you naturally worry about your child’s development from pregnancy through their teen years. In addition to supporting your child in finding their voice, fostering emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial for their happiness and success. Reem Raouda, a certified conscious parenting coach, identifies six signs of high emotional intelligence in children, which is a key predictor of future well-being and success. EI involves recognizing and understanding both one’s own emotions and those of others, contributing to better relationships, less stress, and conflict resolution. If your child isn’t displaying these signs, Reem offers tips to help nurture these skills.
6 signs your child has high emotional intelligence
1. Recognising non-verbal clues: A child with high emotional intelligence can pick up on others’ feelings by observing body language and facial expressions. For example, a child might notice that a friend is sad and share their observation, such as saying, “Mum, my friend Sarah was really quiet today. I think she was sad.” To strengthen this skill, parents can discuss emotions witnessed during their child’s day, helping them better understand and identify emotions in others. Asking questions like, “What kind of mood do you think your best friend was in today?” can further boost their emotional awareness.
2. Showing empathy and compassion: A key aspect of emotional intelligence is the ability to show concern for others and offer help. For example, a child might comfort a friend by saying, “You played really well! Do you want to play something else together?” To strengthen this skill, parents can model empathy by showing care for others, such as saying, “I’m worried about our elderly neighbor. Let’s check on her and see if she needs help.” This teaches children how to express empathy and offer support.
3. They can name their emotions: A child with emotional intelligence can openly express their feelings and relate them to everyday situations, such as saying, “I feel frustrated because I can’t solve this puzzle” or “I’m happy because I helped my friend fix her toy.” This shows they are recognizing and communicating their emotions. To strengthen this skill, parents can practice labeling their own emotions, using phrases like, “I’m disappointed I can’t find my keys” or “I’m worried we’re going to be late.” This helps children naturally develop emotional awareness and expression.
4. They are adaptable: A child who adapts well to change, like being content with an indoor picnic when an outdoor one is canceled, shows emotional maturity. Parents can strengthen this skill by modeling flexibility and calmness, which children will likely imitate. Asking questions like, “What can we do instead?” encourages children to develop problem-solving skills.
5. They are good listeners: A child who is a good listener can pick up on subtle emotional cues in conversations that others might miss, especially when they ask questions and show curiosity. To strengthen this skill, parents should give their full attention when their child is speaking—making eye contact, stopping other tasks, and reflecting or repeating back what they say to show active listening.
6. They can self-regulate: A child who can manage strong emotions, stay calm, and make thoughtful choices demonstrates emotional intelligence. For example, after losing a game, an emotionally intelligent child might pause, take a breath, and continue with a positive attitude. To strengthen this skill, parents should model emotional regulation by using techniques like “pause and breathe,” where both the parent and child take a deep breath and count to 10 during stressful moments. This teaches children to handle challenges with grace.
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