Emotional Literacy

An introduction

Emotional Literacy

Definition

Recognising, understanding, appropriateexpressing and effective handling of

emotionalstates in ourselves and others.

Put more simply…. I know what I feel I can say what I feel I am learning how to handle my feelings

I know how others feel I can say how others feel I am learning how to handle how they are

feeling.

And I can act accordingly.

Where it’s come from

Brain research Psycho-neuroimmunology ( PNI) the study of

psychological effects on the immune system Educational Research Psychiatric Research Psychotherapy and social and cognitive

psychology

Emotional Literacy Involves…..4 foundation beliefs

Positive relationships are vital for brain development and therefore learning

Behaviour is an expression of emotions Emotions affect both what and how learning takes

place Emotions cannot be separated from the body or the

mind.

How does how we handle emotions hinder us?

Irrationality

Emotional HijacksSleep

Distractions Stress

Feeling Bad

Negative Patterns

How does how we handle emotions help us?

Guide our thoughts/ decisions

Feeling Good

IntuitionWants, Likes and Needs

Motivation

Aliveness‘Flow’

Instincts: fear

Make decisions

Focus attention

Introducing Emotional Literacy

By developing greater self awareness and awareness of others this can have a strong and positive impact on students and staff

- Enhancement of personal and interpersonal skills- Creation of emotionally literate relationships and

learning - Development of a socially / emotionally responsive

community

Self-awareness Other awareness

Self-management Relationship management

Model of EL

Intrapersonal intelligence Interpersonal intelligence

Emotional Intelligence is not

Personality

IQ

Just Being Nice

Letting it all Hang Out

Competencies

Navel Gazing

Liking Everyone

Examples of Emotional Wellbeing in Action

Restorative practice Solutions oriented schools Nurture Groups Paths Seasons for Growth School Counsellor

Wellbeing Audits

Physiology – basic needs for human survival Safety and security – personal security Love and belonging – sense of belonging

and acceptance Self esteem –belief in yourself Social and emotional competence - relate

well to your own emotions and the emotions of others and act accordingly

Self actualisation – be the best you can be

Confident Successful Responsible Effective

Mmmmmm sounds familiar!!!!!

Indicates where there is good practice or gaps in provision for Emotional Wellbeing

Informs preparation of School Improvement Plan.