The Connection Between Play and Emotional Intelligence in Children

When you picture a group of young children playing, it may seem like simple fun, giggles over a make-believe tea party, a debate over whose turn it is on the slide, or a carefully built fort that collapses in seconds. 

In early childhood, play helps children to explore their world, express emotions, build relationships, and learn to understand others. Learning through play in early childhood education is one of the most powerful tools for nurturing emotional Intelligence (EQ).

The ability to comprehend and control one’s own emotions as well as those of others is known as emotional intelligence (EQ), and it is becoming more widely acknowledged as a critical component of normal childhood development. 

At the Shri Ram Academy, one of the best primary international schools in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, India, we focus on play that helps children begin to discover who they are and how they can connect with those around them. 

What is Emotional Intelligence in Children?

Emotional Intelligence (EQ) refers to the ability to recognise, understand, and manage one’s own emotions as well as the emotions of others, which helps them connect.

For children, it’s one of the key skills that helps them build healthy relationships, navigate social situations, and cope with challenges effectively. It improves their social skills by fostering empathy, helping them control their emotions, and helping them comprehend those of others. 

Components of Emotional Intelligence:

Early Childhood education learning through play provides a rich context to develop these skills from an early age and also improves focus, classroom behaviour, and overall mental health.

Social Skills Development through Play

Engaging in play is very advantageous in cultivating social skills in children. In a social setting, children freely practice negotiation when they decide on rules and roles, as well as allocate resources.

Children learn to apply various perspectives through role plays, learning how different people feel and react to situations. Learning to share toys and take turns in a game helps teach collaboration, as done in team sports.

Children learn to interpret and understand the meaning of facial expressions, body movements, and voice modulation while playing with their age mates.

For instance, a building blocks game where participants share ideas and take turns fosters appreciation of one’s contributions towards a goal. Because of such interactions, children slowly acquire social sophistication, empathy, and the ability to exercise patience and accommodate others.

Challenges and Considerations

Although there are many merits to playing in promoting emotional development, there are also challenges that parents and teachers need to contend with. Children can learn specific social skills through structured activities, but unplanned play allows them to freely explore their feelings and social interactions.

Finding a balance between organised, supervised, and unsupervised play activities is crucial. While some kids might prefer playing alone, others might prefer playing in groups.

Creating emotionally safe play environments is key. Educators and caregivers play a vital role in facilitating positive play experiences and providing guidance when challenge arises, ensuring that every playful moment contributes to meaningful emotional growth.

Conclusion

The connection between play and emotional intelligence in children is undeniable and profound. Through learning through play in early childhood education, children learn to understand themselves and others, build strong relationships, and handle challenges with empathy and resilience.

At the Shri Ram Academy, located in Gachibowli, Hyderabad, India, we believe in nurturing both the mind and heart. Our play-based learning environments are thoughtfully designed to support academic and holistic development.