Ask the Expert: Nurturing Emotional Intelligence From Early Childhood

Helping children recognize, express, and manage their emotions is just as important as teaching them to walk and talk. Emotional intelligence shapes how kids handle challenges, build relationships, and develop self-confidence—starting from their earliest years and continuing through childhood. This week, we have Meeta Gupta Hari, Counsellor at Reconnect Singapore, joining us for an exclusive Ask the Expert session! Whether you're navigating toddler tantrums, guiding a school-aged child through friendships, or wondering how to foster emotional awareness at home, this is your chance to ask an expert. 💬 Drop your questions from March 19-25 📅 Live answering session: March 26 at 12 PM Let’s equip our kids with the emotional tools they need for life. Ask your questions in the comments below! ⬇️ #AskTheExpert #RaisingEmotionallyStrongKids #ParentingTips #ChildDevelopment

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i'm often not sudre what to do when my daughter (1,5 yo) cries whenever i said no to something she wants... i try to validate her feeling by hugging her or by saying things ;ike "i know you're upset..." but it shows like she's just... crying even more louder.

Meeta Gupta Hari

Counsellor at Reconnect Singapore

5d ago

Dear Anon, Thank you for writing in. It’s wonderful that you’re making an effort to validate your daughter’s feelings. Saying no to our children is completely okay, and it’s natural for them to feel sadness, frustration, or even anger in response. You’re handling it just right. If she cries louder, that’s actually a good sign—it means she’s able to absorb your validation and express her sadness more fully. Toddlers do not have the language skills to express their emotions, but they feel the same things as older children and adults. Since they lack words, their behaviors—like crying, pushing, or having a meltdown—are their way of showing us that their emotions are overwhelming. If you remain calm in those moments and continue to validate her feelings, the intensity usually passes quickly. Imagine yourself as the anchor in a storm, and her emotions as the waves. If you stay steady and calm, the storm will eventually pass smoothly. All the best!

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