How to build an emotionally intelligent classroom with Classroomscreen

Emotional intelligence (EI) is the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our own feelings, and recognize and respond to the feelings of others. In early childhood, this starts with something simple but powerful: learning to name our emotions.

For kindergartners, building EI is just as foundational as learning their ABCs. It lays the groundwork for empathy, cooperation, resilience, and self-regulation. These are skills that support not just classroom success but lifelong well-being.

When kids can identify their feelings and understand how emotions affect behavior, the whole classroom benefits. Here’s how emotional intelligence supports learning:

• Students are more willing to try, take risks, and problem-solve.
• Emotional awareness helps reduce disruptive behaviors.
• Students can communicate clearly, empathize with peers, and resolve conflicts.
• Emotionally regulated kids focus better, set goals, and stay on track.

Start small, and build daily routines that support emotional growth.

Help students build emotional vocabulary by identifying and naming feelings throughout the day. Picture books, emotion cards, and daily check-ins are great tools.

Use role-playing, turn-taking games, or peer-sharing to encourage perspective-taking. Celebrate kind behaviors to reinforce positive social skills.

Teach calming techniques like deep breathing, stretching, or guided mindfulness. Create a “calm corner” where students can go when they need a reset.

Classroomscreen offers built-in tools that make EI part of your daily routine with no prep required.

• Video widget: Play calming videos, guided mindfulness exercises, or stories about emotions to help students learn emotional regulation while staying engaged.
• Poll widget: Use quick polls to check in with students' feelings, helping them practice self-awareness and giving you insights into their emotional states.
• Stickers: Reward positive emotional behaviors, such as acts of kindness or self-regulation, with fun stickers. This reinforces good habits and motivates students.

• Zones of regulation: Using the popular framework, students can identify how they feel according to different zones of feelings.
• Wellbeing check-In: Encourage students to think about how they are feeling at the beginning or end of class. 

• Mindful yoga: Incorporate brief mindfulness exercises or yoga sessions to help students calm their minds and bodies, teaching them how to manage stress effectively.
• What can you hear?: Play soothing sounds and guide students to focus on their sense of hearing. This activity helps students center themselves and regulate their emotions.
• Criss Cross Apple Sauce: A fun way to encourage students to sit calmly, take a moment of stillness, and practice focus as they prepare for the next activity.

With a supportive environment that nurtures these skills early on, you’re not just teaching academics; you’re helping children grow into empathetic, confident individuals ready to navigate the world.