Emotional intelligence is a set of skills associated with monitoring one's own and others' emotions, and the ability to use emotions to guide one's thinking and actions . Emotions impact our attention, memory, and learning; our ability to build relationships with others; and our physical and mental health . Developing emotional intelligence enables us to manage emotions effectively and avoid being derailed, for example, by a flash of anger.
Emotional intelligence is related to many important outcomes for children and adults. Children with higher emotional intelligence are better able to pay attention, are more engaged in school, have more positive relationships, and are more empathic.-NAEYC
