As a 40-year-old Indian father, I often think about how my childhood differed from my child’s life today. The biggest difference is not in gadgets or games, but in how children learn to understand and manage their emotions. Emotional intelligence- the ability to recognize feelings, control them wisely, understand others, and build healthy relationships-is becoming more important than ever. A child with strong emotional intelligence can celebrate success with humility, face failure with courage, and treat others with kindness and respect.
Twenty years ago, emotional intelligence was learned naturally. Most of us grew up in joint or extended families, surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. We learned patience by waiting our turn, empathy by helping one another, and self-control by observing how adults handled challenges. Conversations, play, and real-life experiences shaped our emotions. Technology existed, but it did not dominate our daily lives, and moral values were taught through stories, guidance, and everyday actions.
Today, life has changed. Many children grow up in nuclear families, and their world is filled with screens, gadgets, and AI-based tools. While technology provides knowledge and entertainment, it often reduces face-to-face interaction and limits opportunities to learn empathy, patience, and emotional regulation naturally. Instant answers, online games, and social media offer immediate rewards, leaving less room for children to handle disappointment or manage their emotions thoughtfully. This shift brings challenges for the future. Children who do not develop emotional intelligence may struggle with relationships, teamwork, coping with failure, and managing stress. Even with excellent technical skills, they may find it difficult to navigate life’s complexities or understand the feelings of others.
In this changing world, parents have a pivotal role to play. In nuclear families, we must become intentional emotional guides. Creating a safe space for children to express their feelings, listening patiently, and modeling calm, respectful behavior are essential. Balancing technology with real-world activities such as storytelling, outdoor play, and family interactions helps children learn empathy and cooperation. Teaching children to celebrate achievements humbly and accept mistakes as lessons builds resilience. Instilling values like respect, kindness, and responsibility ensures that children grow not only smart but also compassionate and morally grounded.
While technology and AI continue to grow, emotional intelligence remains the foundation of a child’s development. As parents, we can blend the wisdom of our upbringing with the demands of modern life to raise children who are confident, caring, emotionally strong, and ready to face the world with empathy and courage.
By Mohseen Haneef Boat, p/o Kabeer Mohseen Boat -3E
