Developing Emotional Literacy

By Karen Mahar, Assistant Principal and Deputy Head of Junior School

We know relationships contribute to a community of wellbeing. So far, feedback suggests our year level teams are engaged, committed and collaborating effectively; students are settling into their new routines; and a positive vibe exists throughout our school.

A strong school community supports the development of emotional literacy skills and helps students learn to navigate and manage their own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. By fostering a positive school community, students will have a better chance of developing healthy relationships and thriving academically and emotionally.

Emotional literacy

Emotional literacy or emotional intelligence refer to the ability to understand and manage our emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It includes skills such as empathy, self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, and social awareness. Research has shown that individuals with high emotional literacy tend to be more successful in their personal and professional lives.

Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in helping our children develop healthy relationships with significant people in their life, their peers and teachers, as well as promoting a positive and safe learning environment. By teaching our children emotional intelligence skills, we equip them with the tools they need to navigate challenges, resolve conflicts, and build strong and meaningful connections with others.

All are welcome!

To further discuss the importance of emotional literacy and how it can be fostered in children, we are hosting a parent-information session with Psychologist Phil Slade and Learning and Development Expert Roshelle Weir, who are founders of Switch4Schools (the program we are using in Years 4–6 to help build emotional intelligence at Radford).

During this session, parents will have the opportunity to learn from Phil and Roshelle, ask questions, and engage in discussions about how we can support our children in developing their emotional intelligence.

When: 6:45–7:45 pm on Monday, 20 February
Where: RA Young Hall
What: An informative session offering practical strategies to increase emotional literacy, strategies for managing anxiety and emotional regulation.
Who: All parents and interested community members are encouraged to attend and take advantage of this valuable learning opportunity.

Please RSVP here by Sunday, 19 February to confirm your attendance.

2023 Parent Gatherings

Following the successful social gathering for many of our Pre-K parents in Week 2, we look forward to additional parent events in the coming weeks.

Next Monday, 20 February, we extend a very warm welcome to all Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 Parents to join our K-2 Parent Gathering. Please RSVP by Sunday, 19 February.

In addition to this child-free event being an opportunity for parents to connect over a beverage, it is also a chance for parents to chat socially with Junior School staff.

Parents of students in Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 are invited to gather on Monday, 27 February. Please RSVP here.