About the resource
Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to identify, understand, regulate and express emotions effectively – is one of the most powerful tools we can help children develop.\
For educators, fostering emotional intelligence isn’t just an added bonus in a child’s development; it’s foundational.
When we intentionally support emotional intelligence, we’re equipping children with the lifelong skills they need to build healthy relationships, navigate challenges and thrive in both school and life.
Educators are in a unique position of influence.
The emotional climate of a learning environment or classroom is often shaped by the adult in the room. Children learn not only through formal instruction, but by observing how we react, cope and communicate. This makes it vital for educators to model emotionally intelligent behaviours – staying calm under pressure, validating children’s feelings, and resolving conflicts peacefully.
Supporting children’s emotional intelligence also makes the learning environment a more harmonious place.
When children are more in tune with their emotions and better able to express them, there are fewer outbursts, less conflict, and more opportunities for meaningful peer connections. For educators, this translates to a more focused and engaged learning environment, reduced stress levels, and stronger connections with the children in their care.
Research consistently shows that children with higher emotional intelligence tend to:
- Have stronger friendships and social bonds
- Display more empathy and kindness
- Perform better academically
- Cope more effectively with stress and anxiety
- Exhibit fewer behavioural problems
When we nurture emotional intelligence from an early age, we’re setting the stage for resilience, empathy and self-awareness.
These qualities serve children in our ECEC environments and beyond, improving mental health, relationships, and life satisfaction as they grow. For example, when a toddler learns to say “I’m angry” instead of hitting, or a kindy child comforts a peer who is upset, they are using emotional intelligence to regulate behaviour and connect with others. These may seem like small moments – but they are significant developmental milestones.
Explore our “Inside Out” series accompanied by a free downloadable resource to learn more about why emotional intelligence matters for children and discover practical strategies to promote its development.
Video Vault
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Top 6 Tips to Develop Children’s Emotional Intelligence
Help children manage emotions effectively, avoid being thrown into chaos by their feelings and build more positive relationships. -
Tip 1 – Modelling Behaviours
Modelling emotionally intelligent behaviours not only helps children understand and regulate their own emotions but also sets an example for how they can respond to challenges with empathy and understanding that they will need later in life. -
Tip 2 – Encouraging Empathy
Encouraging empathy is a powerful way to support children’s emotional intelligence. By encouraging empathy, we support children in understanding and connecting with others’ emotions. -
Tip 3 – Teaching Emotional Vocabulary
Helping children identify and label their emotions is a key step in developing emotional intelligence. Using tools like a feelings chart with faces representing different emotions can guide children in recognising what they feel. -
Tip 4 – Conflict Resolution
Conflict is a natural part of childhood development and a key opportunity. As educators, it’s our role to guide children in resolving conflicts peacefully and help them understand the impact of their actions on others. -
Tip 5 – Creating Safe Spaces
For children to develop emotional intelligence, they need more than a “safe adult”. They need an environment where they feel secure and supported, both physically and emotionally. -
Tip 6 – Practicing Mindfulness
Mindfulness can play a big role in developing emotional intelligence in children. By encouraging empathy, we support children in understanding and connecting with others’ emotions.
