As moms, we all know that kids also feel emotions like adults. I never knew about the concept of emotional intelligence until I became a mom. In this article, I will be sharing a few tips which worked like magic for me. Here you go:
Acknowledge and empathize
These two words have a great value when it comes to nurturing emotional intelligence in kids. There are times I cannot do anything when my daughter is upset, so I just empathize with her. When she feels that she is being understood by her mom, it becomes easy for her to let go troubling emotions. You need not have to necessarily agree with your child but just need to see things from your child's perspective.
Expression helps
As a mom, I always encourage my child to express herself. I accept her emotions, instead of minimizing or denying them. If we as parents do not accept our kid's emotions, they might get a message that their feelings are unacceptable or shameful. If you disapprove your child's emotions, they will still continue to have those emotions and your child might repress their feelings and trust me this is not good.
Listen
It is very important that as parents we listen and understand our child's emotions. Whether your kid is six months old or a teenager; they want you to listen and understand their feelings. You won't believe but kids actually become cooperative and affectionate when they get a chance to tell how they feel. You must be there for your child, fully present and of course listening.
Problem solving can work wonders
Always remember that emotions are messages. I have taught my daughter to feel her emotions, breathe through them and to use the technique of problem solving if needed. I believe that if a child feels that their emotions are accepted and understood by their parents, emotions start to dissipate and this helps in problem solving. Sometimes, kids can manage on their own but sometimes they need their parent's guidance for brainstorming.
Play with your child
If you feel that a negative pattern is developing then your kid has certain prominent feelings which they are unable to handle, so it is your duty as a parent to help your little one through the best method; play. Our kids experience different emotions daily, sometimes they feel angry, sad, jealous, powerless or frightened. Kids who are emotionally healthy are able to process such feelings with help of playtime. If you help your kid to play out their inner conflicts then trust me, they will be able to resolve all the issues and move on to the next apt developmental challenge.
I am sure after going through this article, you will be successfully able to nurture emotional intelligence in your child just like I did. A little effort on your part can work like magic for your child’s emotional health!
