EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

Aug 11, 2021

Emotional intelligence (otherwise known as emotional quotient or EQ) is the ability to understand, use, and manage one's own emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges and defuse conflict. In practical terms, this means being aware that emotions can drive our behavior and impact people (positively and negatively), and learning how to manage those emotions - both our own and others.

As much as it is important to develop your child's cognitive skills, it is as important to nurture their emotional intelligence. While academic excellence should be one of the primary focuses of every Parent and School, helping them understand their emotions and assisting them in handling their feelings is also significant. Being emotionally intelligent means to be able to express and manage one's own emotions without hurting other people's feelings. At NITTE International School we prioritize and pay special attention, focusing on areas of non-cognitive skills too as we understand that children can sometimes lack the emotional filters and it is important to nurture it in them. We at NiS work towards the mental well-being of our children by involving them in different extra-curricular activities like OXFAM, Peer Interaction, Circle Time and contributing to the Wall of Kindness.

Raising an emotionally intelligent kid is crucial in today's time. It can help them get through with social interactions and may even make them thrive in life. As insignificant as it may seem, an emotionally intelligent child can grow to excel in every walk of life. That said, here's why we as a School believe nurturing emotional intelligence in our Children is important.

*Emotional intelligence is the path to high IQ. It is believed that children with high EI are great at not just securing higher grades in their tests but are also great Team Players.

*Helps Children to create better and secured relationships. Their friendship or bond with their loved ones will be more advanced and beautiful.

*EI helps in mental well-being, which is crucial for children as they grow up.

Being one among the best International Schools in North Bangalore, we believe that nurturing emotionally intelligent Students can be a task, but not impossible. As per the philosophy of NEP and also being a renowned CBSE School in North Bangalore, we understand that it is crucial to start early, when their minds are sharp and heart's innocent. That said, here are some ways we as a school emphasize on in the process of raising an emotionally intelligent child.

*The first step in raising an emotionally intelligent kid is by acknowledging and understanding the child's own emotions and feelings. Point out the different emotions they express and label them accordingly. Do not judge them or correct them, instead find a way to pinpoint the negative and the positive emotions.

*When the child is not in their element, do not yell at them or complain about it. Instead be empathetic and sincere towards them. Help them understand the emotions they are experiencing. Do not dismiss them or their feelings, as they may grow on to do the same with other people.

*Children may find it difficult to express and narrate their experiences, which is why we model ways to help them raise their concerns. If they fall short on words, we ask them to draw it out or point it out through artistic mediums. However, we discourage students from throwing tantrums and crying or screaming about the same.

*Once we get a hang of the challenge, we help them manage their emotions. Facilitate them with ways to cope with their emotions. Teach them breathing exercises that can calm them down when they are angry. Ask them to find out the source of their emotional rollercoaster and then stimulate their minds for different solutions. Also guide them towards finding a resolve.

Apart from that, it is extremely important to instill problem-solving abilities and Social skills in students. Being emotionally intelligent means to be able to manage and cope with their emotions. This can only be possible if he or she knows how to find answers to their turmoil. Children have to be encouraged to work on self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Working on these areas will help them excel in the future!

In conclusion, I would like to reinstate the fact that developing emotional intelligence enables Children to manage emotions effectively and avoid being derailed. Children with higher emotional intelligence are better able to pay attention, are more engaged in school, have more positive relationships, and are more empathic.