Bababunmi Agbebi
In today’s fast-paced, achievement-driven society, raising a child requires more than just focusing on academics and discipline. While grades and good behavior remain important, research highlights Emotional Intelligence (EQ) as a critical foundation for a child’s overall development.
Daniel Goleman states that “Emotional self-control, delaying gratification, and being able to handle stress are more important for success in life than IQ.”
Emotional Intelligence refers to the ability to identify, understand, and manage one’s emotions, as well as to empathize with others. It plays a key role in how children handle social situations, resolve conflicts, and make responsible decisions. More than just a buzzword, EQ is increasingly seen as a lifelong skill that influences success, well-being, and mental health.
Experts have emphasized the powerful impact of parental behavior on a child’s emotional growth. Children learn best by example. When parents model healthy emotional habits like expressing feelings appropriately, managing stress calmly, and treating others with empathy, children are more likely to develop those same abilities.
For instance, acknowledging a child’s frustration or sadness instead of dismissing it helps build trust and self-awareness. Creating safe, judgment-free spaces for children to express themselves can significantly enhance their emotional resilience.
“Parents who accept all of their children’s emotions, while still setting limits on behavior, are teaching their children emotional intelligence.”(John Gottman)
While educational performance often dominates parenting concerns, emotional development is equally important. A child who is emotionally intelligent is better equipped to cope with challenges, form strong relationships, and contribute positively to society.
In fact, schools and educators are increasingly integrating social-emotional learning into their curricula, recognizing that emotional competence supports academic success. But it starts at home where daily interactions and emotional modeling set the stage for lifelong growth.
Marc Brackett once said “Emotionally intelligent children are better learners, have stronger relationships, and are more capable of managing life’s challenges.”
Raising emotionally intelligent children isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present, empathetic, and intentional in nurturing their emotional world. As the pressures of modern life intensify, EQ stands not as an alternative to academic excellence but as a powerful companion to it, helping children become not just high achievers, but compassionate, well-rounded individuals.
