How to Build your Child’s EQ Muscles By Reading

There are three foundational skills that are easy to discuss and practice while reading picture books with your students. Last month, we discussed recognizing feelings in self and others. This month we will discuss identifying and solving problems, and taking perspective.

While reading with your students, talk to them about identifying problems that the main character gets into, and help them to recognize how other characters in the book might be feeling about the situation too. Being able to take the perspective of others, or have empathy for other people’s feelings is not something that comes naturally for little people. Mainly, because they believe the world revolves around them, and what they think and feel matters most.

Helping children to build up their empathy muscles is a big part of teaching them how to get along, and play well with other children. This SEL skill also teaches children the art of maintaining friendships. Reading picture books are a great way for young children to start learning perspective taking. Here are two examples of modeling perspective taking for your students while reading the following books.

“ Little Sammy Square Finds His Voice”

• “ Does Sammy play an instrument like his mommy, daddy, and sisters?” No, how do you think Sammy is feeling? His mouth is turned downward, and his eyes look watery”. Sad, I bet you are right. How would you feel if you were the only one in your family who didn’t play an instrument and couldn’t be in your family’s band”. I would probably feel sad too!”.

  
  

  Little Dayna Diamond Finds Her Dazzle

• “ During the Sticky chewing gum song, did Dayna want a turn?” No, how do you think she is feeling? Her hands are covering her face, she looks scared. Why do you think she is scared? I bet you are right. How would you feel if you were called on to speak in front of others? I would probably feel nervous too!”