RAISING EMOTIONALLY INTELLIGENT KIDS

There is a lot of messaging aimed at parents around the importance of fostering academic intelligence in your kids. However, that is not the only kind of intelligence that matters.

- 

Emotional intelligence (EQ) refers to how well we express, process, and control our own emotions, and how well we understand, interpret, and respond to the emotions of others. It's a skill set that kids can begin learning at any age and will deeply improve their success and wellbeing.

HOW DOES EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE BENEFIT KIDS?

Studies indicate that emotional intelligence brings a variety of benefits to your child which advantage them throughout their entire life. Here are just a few of the ways emotional intelligence can be helpful:

Higher academic performance

Children with stronger levels of emotional intelligence tend to perform better on standardized tests and have higher grades.

Better relationships

The wisdom, empathy, and skills that are associated with EQ help kids manage conflict and develop deeper friendships. Adults with high levels of emotional intelligence also report better relationships, both personally and at work.

Success during adulthood

Long-term studies have shown that a child's social and emotional skills in the first couple of school years may predict their lifelong success. Children who can share, cooperate and follow directions at age 5 appear to be more likely to gain college degrees and begin working full-time jobs by their mid-twenties.

Better mental health

People with a strong level of emotional intelligence are less likely to experience depression and other mental illnesses.