health
I've studied over 200 kids—the ones with high emotional intelligence do 7 things
Reem Raouda is a certified conscious parenting coach whose philosophy centers around emotional safety. After studying over 200 kids, she shares the key signs of emotionally intelligent kids.
TL;DR
- Children who can name their feelings (e.g., 'I'm frustrated') have developed emotional vocabulary, allowing them to process emotions rather than act them out.
- When children approach parents with difficult emotions, it signifies trust and a feeling of safety, indicating they haven't been shamed or abandoned for their feelings.
- Emotionally intelligent children can experience disappointment, like losing a game, and eventually recover, rather than falling apart.
- Noticing and commenting on others' emotions (e.g., 'Mom, are you sad?') demonstrates developing empathy, a high form of emotional intelligence.
- Genuine apologies stem from recognizing hurt caused and a desire to make amends, reflecting self-awareness and empathy learned from receiving repair.
- Children who can ask for their needs directly (e.g., 'I need a hug') show strong emotional intelligence, indicating an environment where their needs have been consistently met.
- A child doesn't feel the need to constantly manage the emotional atmosphere or suppress themselves to maintain connection, indicating emotional intelligence.