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Parents have a critical role to play in nurturing
and developing their children's emotional intelligence (EI). Strive
to create an environment of trust, respect, and support. Remember
that modeling "emotionally intelligent" behavior at home
is the first step. Work with other members of your school community
to create a climate that supports social and emotional learning
(SEL) - in and out of the classroom. Read books that highlight EI.
Use media as a tool for discussion of emotional competencies.
- Be a good listener. Joshua Freedman,
director of programs for Six
Seconds, a nonprofit organization supporting EI in families,
schools, corporations, and communities, describes listening as
a "core competency skill." Unfortunately, it's not always practiced
by parents or children. For a list of strategies and activities
for building listening skills, read Freedman's article on the
subject, one of the many useful resources at KidSource
Online.
- Model the behavior you seek. Whether
it's apologizing when you're in the wrong or treating others with
respect and kindness, children learn a great deal about relationships
from observing the behavior of their parents. In the words of
Maurice Elias, co-author of two books on emotionally intelligent
parenting, parents should remember the "24K Golden Rule...We should
always think about the impact of our actions on kids, and be as
particular in what we do with our kids as we would want others
to be with our kids." You'll find an interview with Elias on "Emotionally
Intelligent Parenting" in EQ
Today, a journal on emotional intelligence as well as one
on our Web site.
- Nurture your child's self-esteem. A child
with a good sense of self is happier, more well-adjusted, and
does better in school. Strategies for fostering self-esteem include
giving your child responsibilities, allowing him or her to make
age-appropriate choices, and showing your appreciation for a job
well done.
- Respect differences. Every child has
his or her own unique talents and abilities. Whether in academics,
athletics, or interpersonal relationships. Resist the urge to
compare your child with friends or siblings. Instead, honor
your
child's accomplishments and provide support and encouragement
for the inevitable challenges he or she faces.
- Take advantage of support services.
Seek the advice and support of school counselors or other social
services
during times of family crisis, such as a divorce or the death
of a close friend or family member. Remember that no matter
how
close you are to your child, she may be more comfortable discussing
a troubling family situation with another trusted adult.
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