🧠 Emotional intelligence in children: what it is and how to foster it from home and school

Emotional intelligence in children is becoming as important as academic knowledge. Today, education is not just about math or history—it’s also about raising confident, resilient and empathetic individuals.

Children with strong emotional intelligence are more resilient, empathetic, confident and better able to face the challenges of growing up.

In this article, we’ll explain what emotional intelligence is, why it matters, and how we nurture it every day at Numont School. Plus, we’ve included a downloadable guide with 10 simple ideas to encourage emotional development at home.

📥 Click here to download the guide: QUICK GUIDE 10 simple ideas to nurture your child’s emotional intelligence at home

🧠 What is emotional intelligence and why is it important?

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to understand, express and manage emotions—both our own and those of others. In childhood, it’s the foundation for healthy relationships, self-confidence and well-being.

Children with strong EQ:

• Recognise and name what they feel

• Know how to calm themselves when frustrated

• Understand how others feel

• Can communicate and resolve conflicts in a healthy way

According to experts, emotional skills are just as predictive of future success as academic ones.

🏫 How is emotional intelligence developed at school?

At Numont School, emotional development is part of everyday learning. We don’t treat emotions as a separate subject—we live and work with them every day.

Here’s how we integrate emotional intelligence in school life:

✅ Small class sizes and close attention from teachers
✅ Daily routines that include reflection and calm moments
✅ Conflict resolution strategies focused on listening and empathy
✅ Group projects and cooperative learning
✅ Activities like theatre, assemblies and buddy reading
✅ A welcoming, family-style atmosphere

These elements help children express themselves freely, relate better to others, and grow in confidence.

👨‍👩‍👧 How can parents support emotional intelligence at home?

Emotional education begins at home. The way we listen, talk and act with our children is key. You don’t need special materials—just daily habits that create trust, open communication and emotional safety.

Here are some tips:

• Name emotions together: “You’re feeling frustrated because…”

• Avoid labels like “You’re bad” and focus on actions: “Throwing toys isn’t okay”

• Share how you feel too: “I’m a bit tired today”

• Celebrate when your child expresses themselves calmly or helps a friend

• Use books, drawings or roleplay to talk about feelings

Remember: children don’t learn emotional intelligence from lectures, but from real moments, every day.

📥 Download our free QUICK GUIDE: 10 simple ways to foster emotional intelligence in children at home

💛 A school that supports emotional growth

At Numont School, we believe emotional development is the key to thriving in life—not just in school. That’s why we work every day to create a safe, respectful and emotionally rich learning environment.

Would you like to learn more about how we support children’s social and emotional growth?

👉 Contact us or request a personalised visit here

📌 Related articles you may find useful:

• School life at Numont: beyond the classroom

• Theatre in education: more than a performance

• How we celebrate Book Day at Numont School

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