At a time when screens illuminate almost every step of children's daily lives, from play to learning, from communication to entertainment, a major challenge for 21st century parents is how to preserve and strengthen their children's emotional intelligence.
In this digital world, where interactions are often fast, filtered, and distanced, developing feelings, emotional awareness, and interpersonal skills requires a conscious and intentional commitment.

1. Why is emotional intelligence essential today?

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own emotions, as well as to sense and respect the emotions of others.

In modern life:

- EQ is a much stronger indicator of long-term success than simple IQ,

- Helps build healthy, stable and empathetic relationships,

- Play a key role in coping with stress and daily challenges.

- In a world where virtual communication has often replaced face-to-face interaction, children need this vital skill more than ever.

2. The role of parents in the development of emotional intelligence

Parents remain children's first and most important teachers of emotional sensitivity. Here are some key ways to help:

a) Provide the right emotional model
Children learn primarily through example.

Express your emotions openly: "I'm sad because..." or "I'm very happy today because..."

Talk about healthy ways to manage emotions, like deep breathing or taking a break.

b) Name and acknowledge their emotions

When a child is sad, frustrated, or excited:

Help him identify the feeling:

"It seems to me that you are disappointed because..."

Accept the emotion without minimizing it:

"I understand that it's very disappointing."

This creates emotional awareness and teaches that emotions are not shameful or dangerous.

c) Encourage conflict resolution through dialogue

Instead of immediately intervening to resolve a conflict between children:

- Guide them to express their feelings in words,

- Help them listen to each other without interruption,

- Co-create solutions that respect the feelings of everyone involved.

This strengthens communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills.

3. How does the digital world affect emotional development?

Constant exposure to screens has brought undeniable benefits in the field of education and information, but also some challenges to emotional development:

- Reducing face-to-face interactions

Less ability to read the body language and emotional expressions of others.

- Excessive stimulation

It causes children to become accustomed to quick and fleeting emotions, losing the ability to stay with their feelings.

- Social comparison

Social networks foster feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem through constant comparisons.

Therefore, active parental intervention is essential to help children manage and balance the digital world.

4. Practical strategies for parents in the digital age

Limit screen time and set clear rules for technology use, making screen time a mindful activity.

Create technology-free moments, like family meals, walks, or quiet games where communication is through eyes and words.

Talk about the emotions caused by technology

"How did this comment make you feel?" or "What did this game make you feel?"

Promote off-screen activities

Sports, art, music, and imaginative games that develop self-esteem and emotional connection.

5. The Future: Raising a Generation with a Smart Heart

If we want to prepare children to be successful and happy in the world of tomorrow, it is not enough to just give them academic or technological skills.

We need to instill in them emotional intelligence — that inner gift that helps them understand themselves, connect with others, and build healthy and lasting relationships.

In a world dominated by screens and fast-paced lives, nurturing children's emotional growth is more vital than ever.
With love, patience, and dedication, we can teach them that empathy is not a weakness, but the greatest strength they can have.