Student Wellbeing

Emotional Literacy

Emotional literacy can be defined as the ability to understand ourselves and other people. It includes the ability to understand, express and manage our own emotions, build empathy and to respond appropriately to the emotions of others. Building a large vocabulary for emotions helps to increase emotional literacy and build self-awareness and empathy for others.

Sometimes it is difficult to manage and regulate our emotions. In this busy world with its demands and difficulties we are more exposed more than ever to feelings which can make us uncomfortable. Conflict with others in our daily lives for example, challenges us to find appropriate ways to respond whilst upholding the respect and dignity of everyone involved.

Unfortunately we are exposed to news reports often showing people with no emotional literacy, respect or dignity for themselves (let alone other people!). One recent news report told of a road rage incident with the Police Commissioner giving advice for motorists to ‘drive away’ and not become involved with this sort of behaviour.

At times we all need to remember to breathe and to focus on the important things in life. Keep the ‘Emotional Cup’ of yourselves and your children filled to the brim!

To all the Mothers ‘Happy Mothers Day’ and thanks for listening!

Guy Toomey