Published in January 2020 for citypassguide.com. See archived page

When you think about what children need to become successful adults, what comes to mind? Parents, teachers, and children alike often think a high IQ, good marks, and proficiency in reading, writing, and mathematics are all essential for success.

Although these skills are certainly a priority at International School Saigon Pearl (ISSP), a growing body of research suggests that Emotional Intelligence is actually what matters most. ISSP joins a growing number modern academic institutions that have sought to increase emotional intelligence in their students in order to develop strong interpersonal social skills, high academic achievement and, later in life, a successful career.

What is Emotional Intelligence?

How can someone be “emotionally intelligent” anyway? It’s helpful to think of Emotional Intelligence as four key skills:

1. Perceiving, evaluating, and expressing emotions.

2. Controlling and changing emotions in order to think clearly.

3. Using words and labels to identify emotions.

4. Reflecting on those emotions and managing them effectively.

In other words: learning how to control your emotions, and not letting them control you!

Why is Emotional Intelligence Important?

When it comes to a child’s development, EQ can make all the difference. Increasingly, experts agree that children with a high EQ are more likely to succeed in relationships, health, quality of life, good decision making, and critical career skills like cooperation in the workplace. Consequently, prominent industry trendsetters like Google, FedEx, and Facebook have already begun to prioritize high EQ scores when hiring new employees.

Children with high EQ scores have a huge advantage. They are especially good at positive thinking and possess the motivation required to study harder and manage their time. As they progress into their teenage years and young adulthood, they are equipped with the tools to balance increased responsibilities and workloads, as well as keeping up their relationships with family and friends.

Having a high EQ means interacting with empathy. Children who are aware of the feelings and experiences of others are far less likely to exhibit violent, bullying behaviors. And when it comes to precarious social or professional dilemmas, they’ll have a much better idea of how to actuate their ideas and solutions effectively.

How Can Children Develop EQ in School and at Home?

There’s good news! Unlike IQ, EQ can actually change and grow over time. Especially with young children, it’s important to teach them how to talk about their emotions. Parents can model emotionally intelligent behaviors at home by naming their own emotions out loud and expressing empathy toward their children when they share their emotions, even when they’re feeling angry or sad. When children learn to recognize their emotional reactions as they happen, they can learn to stop, reflect, and strategize in a healthy way.

Schools can make a huge impact on students’ EQ as well. ISSP is now the only early years & elementary international school in Ho Chi Minh City to have the prestigious accreditation from the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleagues, which recognize the academic and operational excellence of a school. This is in no small part due to ISSP’s incorporation of EQ-strengthening programs for learners of all ages and levels.

Engaging in the hard work of increasing children’s emotional intelligence (as well as those of adults) is vital for the future of our little ones. The next generation faces an increasingly competitive world where problem-solving and raw intelligence skills matter — but the ability to collaborate, balance career and relationships, and think empathically will help our children grow into strong, capable adults tackling the challenges of tomorrow.