As discussed in part one of this two-part series our goal as parents is to raise our children to be successful and develop to their highest potential. Emotional Intelligence is the way to accomplish this – it will be the game changer for your children.
Children need to become aware of their emotions
Fostering children’s intellectual skills are very important for a successful life, but children need to learn how to become aware of their emotions and regulate them to have successful relationships in life. Ultimately, how children get along with other children will determine how they succeed in life.
Parental relationships + friendships
The way in which children manage socially is dependent upon the interrelationship between both parents and their children. Developing friendships is a big part of family and community life and plays an integral role in a child’s development.
Allowing your children to experience their emotions
In general, children feel most comfortable in their home environment and will naturally act out at home. I might add that adults sometimes do the same thing. We behave in ways with our family that most of us would never share with friends or colleagues. This can really be a challenge if children observe adult behaviours that are socially unacceptable. The best occasion to teach children who are acting out or having a meltdown is in their home where their family who loves them unconditionally can provide support and guidance.
Their home is the perfect venue to teach them how to assess and regulate their feelings in their early years. You are developing your child’s emotional intelligence when you can assist them in understanding their feelings, such as anger, confusion and frustration. Allowing your children to experience their emotions and work through why they feel that way is essential.
Children with high emotional intelligence are better able to learn, problem-solve and develop positive social relationships. Author, John Gottman explains;
“A child with a high emotional IQ is better able to cope with his feelings, can bring himself down from emotional high-wire acts, understands and relates well with others, and can form strong friendships more easily than a child with a lower emotional IQ”.
When it comes to educating your children on harnessing their emotions and developing their social ability, emotional intelligence really will be the key to their success.
