This glossary introduces keywords related to emotional learning. These terms help children (and adults!) understand their feelings, communicate better, and build strong relationships. Use this as a helpful tool at home, in the classroom, or during therapy sessions.
And check out our FAQ section for answers to common questions about Emotional Intelligence, Social Emotional Learning, and more!
The process of understanding emotions—both your own and others’. It includes recognizing what you’re feeling, naming those emotions, and learning how to handle them in healthy ways.
Being able to recognize, name, and understand emotions in yourself and others. It’s like learning the language of feelings!
The ability to use emotional literacy in real-life situations. It means understanding your emotions, managing them in healthy ways, and using that understanding to build strong relationships and make good choices.
A quick, automatic reaction in the body to something that happens—like your heart racing when you’re scared or feeling warm or full of energy when you’re happy.
How you personally experience and interpret emotions. Feelings are shaped by your thoughts, memories, and experiences. They often sit below the surface—like under the surface of an iceberg or the rumbling inside a volcano—in response to an emotion.
Self-awareness is like having a compass that points to what you’re feeling. It helps you understand where your emotions come from and the feelings you have.
The ability to manage your emotions and feelings in a healthy way—like calming down when you’re mad or taking a break when you’re overwhelmed.
Understanding and caring about how someone else feels. It’s like stepping into their shoes to see the world from their point of view.
The ability to bounce back after something difficult happens. It’s like emotional strength—you might still feel upset, but you keep going and learn from it.
The tools we use to get along with others—like listening, sharing, taking turns, and solving problems together.
A teacher-based approach to helping children develop emotional and social skills in school. SEL includes things like managing emotions, showing empathy, setting goals, and making responsible decisions.
What is emotional intelligence?
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions—and the emotions of others.
How do I recognize my own emotions?
Notice physical sensations (like a tight chest or butterflies) and name the feeling you’re experiencing. Ask: “What triggered this?”
How do I manage stress or strong emotions?
Strategies include taking deep breaths, counting to ten, or using calming tools like the emotion wheel or grounding techniques.
What is emotional intelligence?
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions—and the emotions of others.
How do I recognize my own emotions?
Notice physical sensations (like a tight chest or butterflies) and name the feeling you’re experiencing. Ask: “What triggered this?”
How do I manage stress or strong emotions?
Strategies include taking deep breaths, counting to ten, or using calming tools like the emotion wheel or grounding techniques.
What does empathy look like?
It means really listening, trying to understand someone else’s perspective, and responding with care—even if you don’t agree.
How is emotional intelligence helpful at work or school?
It helps with teamwork, conflict resolution, leadership, and staying calm under pressure.