Emotional intelligence is defined as the ability to recognize, understand, express, and manage one’s own emotions.
Considering that this can be challenging even for adults, many parents are surprised to discover how capable their children are of developing emotional intelligence from a very young age.
Clinical psychologist Lisa Firestone explains that there are specific signs that clearly indicate a child’s emotional intelligence. One of them is crying. Though it may sound unusual, a child who feels secure enough to cry in front of parents or others is not afraid of expressing their emotions, which is a key indicator of emotional intelligence.
Similarly, emotionally intelligent children demonstrate empathy, the ability to empathize with others or recognize their feelings. If a child is particularly hypersensitive, they may show sadness when they see their friend at daycare or school feeling down, and they often comfort their peers when they are feeling bad, explains the psychologist.
Another symptom that is often a sign of emotional intelligence in children relates to their open relationship with parents. A child who always talks about their problems, emotions, and things that bother them has developed emotional intelligence and is better equipped to handle the challenges that come with growing up.
Firestone also mentions that emotionally intelligent children often display a high level of curiosity. While every child is curious to some extent, a child with developed emotional intelligence is open and interested in things happening around them. Additionally, these children have a strong desire to learn, making them usually successful in school or having numerous hobbies.
