Tips for Facilitating Emotional Intelligence in Kids, Part II
By Laura Ramirez (Family Matters Planning Magazine)
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a new parenting directive. Although it was considered enough to feed, clothe and raise children in our parents’ day, this is no longer sufficient because our understanding of what they really need from us has changed. In this article, I’ll explain the concept in detail and give you three ways to cultivate it.
What constitutes emotional intelligence?
- Ability to resist temptation in the service of a higher goal
- Ability to take action that considers the needs of self and others
Emotionally intelligent children have a variety of social skills that have been cultivated over time. As you read over the list I’ve created above, notice the value in each skill.
Tips for Cultivating Emotional Intelligence:
Give your child specific, supportive feedback about his interactions with others. Use these statements to help him discover his own identity as one who cares for himself and others. Don’t tell him, show him through careful selection of your words. For instance, you can say something like, “I noticed how you helped your brother when he was feeling frustrated, even though he was being short with you. I was impressed that rather than reacting to his behavior, you responded and gave him what he needed. How does it feel to know that you can choose to act with patience in the face of someone else’s anger?
If you’ve read this far, then you understand the importance of cultivating emotional intelligence in children. If every parent accepted the responsibility of teaching their children to navigate the depths of their emotions, the world would be a much better place.
Laura Ramirez is the author of the award-winning parenting book, Keepers of the Children. The book teaches parents how to raise children to bring their unique strengths to the table, so they can grow up to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives. Isn’t this what you want for your children?
April 2011