A person with social intelligence not only understands how others feel but also knows how to respond in a way that promotes positive relationships. It allows them to work well in groups, handle disagreements positively and make others feel valued and included.
HOW SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE ENRICHES OUR CHARACTER
People who develop strong social intelligence are often more empathetic and compassionate; they care about others’ feelings and perspectives. They are usually better communicators, expressing their thoughts and listening actively to others. They are effective problem solvers who can navigate conflict calmly and constructively.
When growing up, those qualities help children form meaningful friendships, contribute positively to classroom dynamics, and develop leadership skills.
At the same time, social intelligence also builds resilience. Children with strong relational skills are better equipped to seek help, collaborate, and recover from setbacks.
SUPPORTING SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE AT HOME
Parents can show their children how to recognise and talk about different emotions. For example, if a sibling is upset, they could say, “Look at how your sister is frowning. She’s sad because her toy got lost. What could we do to help her feel better?”
They can also encourage perspective-taking by using storytelling to help their children think about how others feel. They can ask, “How do you think the little crocodile felt when he couldn’t find his mum?”
Another strategy parents can use at home is to teach active listening. This can easily be done by simply practising taking turns in conversations. Make eye contact, nod to show understanding, and repeat back what your child says to demonstrate reflective listening.
In conclusion, social intelligence can be supported by spending time with your children and having constructive conversations. Use any opportunity to demonstrate compassion and to use restorative practices instead of correcting behaviours with punishments.
DEVELOPING SOCIAL INTELLIGENCE IN SCHOOL
- Use of collaborative learning
Collaborative learning is a very effective method to develop social intelligence in children, especially in Early Years and the Primary stage.
Working on group projects and activities, children learn to cooperate, share ideas, and respect different viewpoints. Teachers can assign roles within groups to ensure each pupil has a responsibility, promoting accountability and teamwork.
Collaborative learning will enhance their academic performance and will also help them build empathy and communication skills.
Plan meticulously when the teacher should intervene and when it’s better to let the conflicts be solved by the children. Putting the focus on the social intelligence skills instead of on the final outcome will better develop your students’/pupils’ social skills; and therefore, you will be deliberately teaching character within your setting.
You can also try and plan/create those conflicts yourself to ignite controlled arguments/problems. Knowing your pupils well will help you guide those who are more in need of the development of this skill. You can also try and plan/create those conflicts yourself to ignite controlled arguments/problems. Knowing your pupils well, will help you guiding those who are more in need of the development of this skill.
- Teach conflict resolution
In today’s world, conflict resolution is a highly valued skill sought after by companies all over the world. It is a key component of effective leadership, and many successful leaders share the fact that they have well-developed conflict resolution skills.
Schools can incorporate lessons or activities focused on teaching children how to handle disagreements constructively, instead of escalating arguments, which is a common human default mode.
Role-playing scenarios and guided discussions will provide children/students with the tools they need to remain calm and solve problems effectively. Learning these skills in a controlled and supportive environment helps them manage their emotions, maintain positive relationships, and train their muscle memory so that when they encounter a real-life conflict, they will be so accustomed to solving these that it will reduce their anxiety and shift their default mode to a more constructive one.
- Create a ‘Feelings Corner’
A ‘Feelings Corner’ is a designated space in the classroom where children can go to reflect on their emotions and practise self-regulation. These areas often include posters with emotion words/images, calming tools like stress balls, etc. Ensuring this area is in the quietest possible corner of the room will enhance its effectiveness.
After the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, it became common practice in schools worldwide to encourage children to acknowledge and articulate their emotions. It serves as self-therapy and helps children better understand what they feel and how those feelings can be channeled. A popular framework adopted by many schools around the world is the Zones of Regulation, which provides children with toolkits they can use when they experience unpleasant emotions such as anger or loneliness.
- Celebrate Kindness
Recognising and celebrating kindness will reinforce positive social behaviours.
In my current school, we have introduced a behaviour system that rewards these behaviours and emphasises rewards over consequences. Our young pupils love earning those ‘points,’ which accumulate and are exchanged for rewards.
Schools can implement similar programmes like ‘Kindness Awards’ or ‘Caught Being Kind’ initiatives to highlight children who demonstrate compassion and empathy. At my school, we award them with the ‘Best Behaviour Certificate,’ printed on fancy, glossy paper, when they achieve 10 points.
These celebrations of kindness create a culture of mutual respect and encourage children to continue engaging in prosocial behaviour.
Ensuring the systems are applied consistently, and that all professionals uphold the same standards, will maximise their benefits and success.
Mr Sanchez Tutoring 