From a parent’s perspective, I can confidently say that it’s important for parents to teach children how to control and manage their emotions. My 8-year-old Sophie, for example, gets rather frustrated with her schoolwork or feels disappointed when things don’t meet her expectations. When we came across the That’s Okay Emotional Intelligence book for children, it was an eye-opener as to how we could approach emotions at home in a completely different way. 

But it’s not just personal growth or understanding that emphasises the need for this particular subject. According to the YoungMinds survey, 77% of parents in the UK think children need more help in understanding their emotions. In fact, 8 out of 10 parents strongly believe that with high EQ, their children will enjoy better health in adulthood and for this, it is best to start early. 

This highlights a critical need for resources such as the That’s Okay Emotional Intelligence book, which helps children access an understanding of their emotions and equips them to handle these effectively. 

Why That’s Okay is such a great book for children 

The That’s Okay series brings so much more to children and parents. Here’s why this emotional intelligence book is really something special: 

A familiar feel throughout the pages 

The book addresses emotions that children may face from day to day and how they feel when things don’t go their way. These moments, which many children may usually be reluctant to talk about with their parents, can help them understand that their emotions are normal and valid. Every couple of pages has the same layout and style as the next, making the book a comfortable, gentle, and familiar reading experience. This is especially effective for SEN, where creating a safe and familiar space for learning is essential. 

Coping mechanisms

Although the book itself does not have any coping mechanisms, there is a spin-off in the author’s series called That’s Calm, with guided meditation. But if the book can help your child identify their feelings and feel more confident to talk about them, the conversation with parents can act as a coping mechanism with long-lasting benefits. Once you know what upsets your child once, you’ll know how to manage those situations more effectively in the future. 

Encourages parent-child interactions 

Children and parents can discuss the emotions explored after or during the reading of the book. For instance, it has become common practice for me to talk with Sophie about the colourful creatures from excited to angry, and this has not only benefitted her but has also allowed me to construct better models of her emotions. 

The book is bright and engaging 

With its vibrant phrases, distinct illustrations, and attention-grabbing, simple-to-read text, children can understand complex emotions in an enjoyable and approachable way. 

Insights from parents 

Some interesting statistics from the YoungMinds survey include: 

• 85% of parents believe that books and activities are the best ways to teach emotional intelligence to children at home. 
• More than 70% of parents reported a marked improvement in their child’s ability to articulate their emotions after introducing emotional education books or mindfulness practices into their routine. 

These findings show how resources like the That’s Okay Emotional Intelligence book can nurture children’s emotional growth. 

Change for life: Sophie’s experience 

Expressing feelings was often difficult for Sophie, and she would sometimes feel overwhelmed before reading the book. One exercise she loves is the ‘calm tree’ visualisation, where she imagines herself as a rooted tree standing still in the wind. 

Now, when Sophie feels upset or frustrated, she uses this exercise to calm herself and regain focus. It’s been wonderful to see her confidently use these tools, and it has helped foster a relationship where emotions can be expressed openly.

Practical tips for parents 

If you’re keen to support your child’s emotional growth, here are three actionable steps: 

• Initiate conversations about emotions. Use relatable stories or scenarios to encourage your child to talk openly about their feelings.You could also tell them how you feel, create open discussions, and inspire your child to do the same.
• Teach coping strategies. Practise techniques like deep breathing or visualisation with your child to help them develop emotional resilience.
• Celebrate progress. Acknowledge and praise your child’s efforts in managing their emotions, reinforcing positive behaviours.

Empower your child with emotional intelligence 

Helping children navigate their emotions doesn’t have to feel daunting. The That’s Okay Emotional Intelligence book provides a simple, engaging, and impactful way to foster emotional intelligence. 

By choosing this book, you’re not only teaching your child about emotions but also equipping them with skills to face life’s challenges with confidence and compassion. Let’s make emotional awareness a cornerstone of their future success.

Ellen Diamond, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.