Contents
Parents often forget that it is necessary to pay attention not only to the mental development of the child, but also to his emotional intelligence. It is he who allows us to understand other people’s feelings, manage our own and build stronger relationships. Which, by the way, has a positive effect on the academic success of the child. The psychologist tells about how it can be developed.
Social Emotional Education helps children develop abilities in five areas:
- self-awareness;
- self management;
- social awareness;
- communication skills;
- making responsible decisions.
Therefore, children with high emotional intelligence achieve greater academic results, more often independently enter universities, experience less cravings for bad habits, and most importantly, feel happy more often.
And to develop it, it is enough to resort to 4 simple tricks.
1. Don’t be afraid to show positive emotions
Emotions are a signal that helps others understand our state and opinion about what is happening. As we age, we pinch ourselves, trying to exercise restraint. For an adult, this behavior is a conscious choice. The child does not yet know how to control emotions and only copies the parental model. Rejoice sincerely and noisily at the success of the child. Even if you are tired or thinking about problems at work, make an effort, smile and hug your child.
2. Voice your own emotions
People to varying degrees have the ability to «read» other people’s emotions. But they are far from always simple: sometimes sadness and relief, pride and shame are mixed in us. By speaking out our emotions and states, we help children understand us: “Although I am very angry now that you skipped school, but first of all, I am very sad. I’m worried about your future.»
But it’s worth being careful and cutting off extremes — even if we are “disappointed to death”, the child does not need to report it in such a formulation.
3. Take an interest in the emotional state of the child
Children who feel genuine interest in themselves are more open and motivated. When asking how the day went, focus on the child’s emotions: what did he feel at certain moments? Try to understand the child’s feelings and show empathy, even if it seems that what happened is not a reason for sadness or joy.
4. Show acceptance
Recognize internally that all the emotions and feelings of the child have a right to exist. And this is exactly what should be shown to the child: “Yes, you have the right to be angry with me. I’m truly sorry. Let’s talk about how to fix this situation?»