Emotional intelligence is the ability to identify, understand, and manage emotions in oneself and others. It is a crucial skill for success in personal relationships and professional life.

However, the question of when to start teaching emotional intelligence to children remains a matter of debate.

The Importance of Emotional Intelligence for Children

Developing emotional intelligence in children has numerous benefits. Children who are emotionally intelligent are better able to communicate their needs and feelings to others. They are more empathetic and understanding of others’ emotions.

Children with high emotional intelligence are also more resilient and better able to cope with stress and adversity. Furthermore, they are better equipped to form positive relationships and develop social skills.

At What Age Should Emotional Intelligence Be Taught?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Emotional intelligence can be taught at any age, but parents should adjust their approach based on the child’s age and developmental stage.

While some experts believe that emotional intelligence should be taught as early as infancy, others believe that formal teaching should start in preschool.

Teaching Emotional Intelligence in Infancy

Some experts recommend starting emotional intelligence training in infancy. Infants are highly responsive to emotional cues and can understand basic emotions such as happiness, sadness, and anger.

Parents can use facial expressions and tone of voice to teach infants about emotions.

For example, when a baby smiles, parents can respond with excitement and joy. When the baby cries, parents can use a soothing tone to help the baby regulate their emotions.

These simple actions help infants develop an understanding of emotions and begin to learn how to manage their own feelings.

Teaching Emotional Intelligence in Toddlerhood

Toddlers are developing rapidly, both physically and mentally. They are learning to recognize and express their emotions, but they may not yet have the language skills to fully communicate their feelings.

Parents can help by labeling emotions and teaching children about basic emotional regulation techniques such as taking deep breaths or counting to ten.

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For example, if a toddler is feeling angry or upset, a parent might say “I can see that you’re feeling angry.

That’s okay, let’s take a deep breath and try to calm down.” This helps the child understand and validate their emotions while also giving them a tool to manage those feelings.

Teaching Emotional Intelligence in Preschool

Preschool is a crucial time for emotional development. Children at this age are beginning to understand more complex emotions and are developing friendships and social skills.

Parents and educators can teach emotional intelligence by incorporating activities that encourage children to identify and express their emotions.

For example, a preschool classroom might have a “feelings chart” with faces representing different emotions. Children can point to the face that expresses how they’re feeling, or use words to describe their emotions.

Teachers can also use role-playing activities to help children practice social skills and empathy.

Teaching Emotional Intelligence in Elementary School

As children enter elementary school, they are better able to understand and manage their emotions. However, they may still struggle with social skills and navigating complex emotional situations.

Parents and educators can help by continuing to incorporate emotional intelligence activities into the curriculum, and by modeling healthy emotional regulation themselves.

For example, a teacher might lead a class discussion about different emotions and how they can be expressed. They might also encourage children to think about how their words and actions can affect others.

Parents can also help by providing a safe and supportive home environment, and by encouraging healthy communication within the family.

The Bottom Line

Emotional intelligence is a crucial skill for success in all areas of life. While it can be taught at any age, parents and educators should adjust their approach based on the child’s developmental stage.

Infants benefit from simple emotional cues, while preschoolers can engage in role-playing and social skill activities. Elementary-school-age children can expand their emotional vocabulary and practice healthy communication and empathy skills.