Intelligence Quotient or IQ is usually assessed by the following questions: How does the child reason through a particular problem? Does he/she recognize patterns easily? Does the child possess a good ability to solve problems?
On the other hand, Emotional Quotient or EQ is characterised more by the following traits: Does the child display emotionally-regulated behaviour? Is the child easily upset or angry with small things not going his/her way? Does the child have healthy interactions with peers and adults? Is the child able to express his/her needs or challenges? Can the child understand emotions from verbal or non-verbal cues?
Which is more important for children to possess, EQ or IQ? Well, the answer is simple. A good balance of both these skills ensures the overall development and well-being of the child. However, the difference lies in our awareness levels regarding both these skills.
When we find a child struggling with IQ related skills, for example language or mathematics, we find sufficient resources and guides to help enhance those skills. Such skills usually require more practice and repeated exposure to different types of problems, and sometimes variation in teaching techniques to help drive the point better.
However, when it comes to EQ related skills, we have to make an effort to understand the nuances. A child who is shy and awkward cannot be relentlessly pushed to become an extrovert overnight. Here as a parent or an educator, we must first show acceptance and love for the way he/she is. The child must not get the slightest hint of disapproval or the feeling that the adult is ashamed of the behaviour exhibited by the child. This will demotivate and push him/her further into a shell.
Once acceptance sets in, we must allow the child, time and space to open up, keep working on their confidence by appreciating small changes, slowly exposing them to skills through modelling and other techniques. All this time, we could gently nudge them to try while constantly motivating them. Children must also be protected from critics who could derail their improvement with their harsh words.
Once the child feels more confident and secure, he/she will surprise you in ways unimaginable. A shy speaker opens to participating in an elocution, a loner reaching out a hand of friendship to the new child in class, or a hyper-active child quietly sitting and building a Lego robot.
A-7, 117/130, Model Town, Serrvodaya Nagar, Kanpur
0512 – 2219988, +91 – 8726044055
A-7, 117/130, Model Town, Serrvodaya Nagar, Kanpur
0512 – 2219988, +91 – 8726044055