When a mother notices that her child, around two years old, becomes more interactive with those around them, prefers to play with peers, and begins to understand and share others’ interests, this indicates early social intelligence.
Early indicators of social intelligence can appear as early as 2–3 months, such as social smiling, which reflects healthy brain development. As the child grows, several signs emerge that reassure parents about their child’s social development.
In a discussion with Nadormagazine, educational consultant Shahinaz Lafi identified four key indicators of social intelligence in children.
What is Social Intelligence in Children?
Social intelligence is a child’s ability to understand social interactions, including how people communicate and express emotions, and to build strong relationships with both peers and adults.
It involves:
-
Understanding body language
-
Using both verbal and non-verbal communication
-
Managing emotions appropriately in different situations
-
Expressing themselves effectively to enhance their social standing
Key Signs of Social Intelligence in Your Child
1. The child initiates conversation
A socially intelligent child does not just respond; they take the initiative. For example, they might:
-
Greet someone first
-
Ask polite questions about someone’s work or surroundings
In contrast, a child who rarely initiates conversation and waits for others to engage may have lower social intelligence, not just shyness or politeness.
2. The child notices others’ reactions
A socially aware child observes how others respond to their words and actions. This awareness helps them:
-
Respect others’ opinions
-
Understand social etiquette
-
Realize they are part of a larger community
Children who ignore others’ reactions or feelings may struggle with social interactions later.
3. The child expresses emotions verbally
It is important for children to communicate their feelings:
-
Saying “I’m sad” or “I’m angry” demonstrates healthy social intelligence
-
Relying solely on crying to express emotions indicates poor emotional and social development
Teaching children to label and communicate emotions helps them navigate relationships effectively.
4. The child can change the topic or manage conversation flow
A socially intelligent child can steer conversations and avoid uncomfortable situations. This skill is rare and indicates advanced social awareness.
Tips to Develop Social Intelligence in Your Child
-
Encourage social interactions: Arrange playdates, group activities, and sports clubs to build social skills.
-
Teach emotional expression: Be a supportive confidant, allowing your child to share feelings safely.
-
Teach empathy: Show them how to read others’ body language and respond appropriately, e.g., comforting a sad child rather than laughing at them.
-
Guide conflict resolution: Teach problem-solving and fairness in disputes without favoritism.
-
Encourage collaboration: Allow your child to visit friends and play independently to avoid overprotectiveness.
-
Lead by example: Children learn more from observing respectful and polite interactions than from instructions or commands.
By recognizing these signs and actively supporting social development, mothers can help their children become confident, empathetic, and socially capable individuals.
Post a Comment