Child Brain Development and Emotional Intelligence

Early Brain Development Dr. Jack Shonkoff, Harvard University – “Early experience literally shapes the brain and affects life long learning and life long health” Child’s first 3-5 years of life experiences are crucial Development of sensory pathways, language, fine/gross motor, primary cognitive, social and emotional skills Early Learning Video

Childhood Brain Development - IQ Motor Skills Visual/Spatial Emotions Logic Language Memory Behavioral control How the brain develops

EQ or Emotional Intelligence Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to identify, use, understand, and manage emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict. * Emotional Intelligence

What’s expected at this age? Each child’s development is unique Age 5-7: interest in interactions with peers awareness of others and how they are perceived by others prefer routines need adult help often with emotional intelligence

What’s expected at this age? imitating actions of friends seek more independence and less structure/routines beginning to understand others’ feelings and actions – beginnings of empathy Seek more independence to cope with emotions – but they still need you

What’s expected at this age? Age 10-12 (Puberty): friendships become more complicated with misunderstandings and difficulties wanting more approval from friends then parents opinions might differ from parent Desire strong independence, but still too young to make life decisions alone – still need you! Hormones play a role in emotional regulation

Why should children express emotions?

Anger is a mask Amygdala is up front No logical thinking There is another emotion behind the anger Expressing anger is good Ways to express anger to reach calmness

How to Support Child’s Emotional Intelligence Dr. Laura Markham, Positive Parenting – ahaparenting.com Goal = self-discipline Set limits with empathy “Parents create the weather in their homes” Connect – acknowledge the feelings Model emotional intelligence – remain calm, use mindfulness, stop-drop-breathe

Help Empty Emotional Backpack Fear Sadness Stress Embarrassment Shame Fatigue Eat protein, then game time, time in