What is 'emotional literacy'?

Emotional literacy is the ability to:

• understand and manage our own emotions
• appreciate the emotions of others
• use emotions effectively to enhance our own lives and the lives of those around us

Emotions are powerful. Learning to use them for positive outcomes is empowering. A high level of emotional literacy is life-transforming - it gives individuals personal power derived from satisfying relationships and meaningful work.

Emotional intelligence puts emotions at the centre of our aptitude for living, allowing us to fulfil our potential intellect.

There is nothing mysterious about emotional intelligence. The crucial emotional competencies are a set of skills that can be taught and learned. Hence the term 'emotional literacy'.

How it helps:

It provides insight, understanding and strategies to enhance the management of your feelings and your personal and professional effectiveness.

More information:

The National Emotional Literacy Interest Group
www.nelig.com

Every Child Matters Education Fund
www.everychildmatters.com

Smallwood Publishing Ltd
www.smallwood.co.uk

The Campaign for Emotional Literacy
www.antidote.org.uk

Courses in Social, Emotional and Behavioural Skills
www.osiriseducational.co.uk

Portal to Issues
www.standards.dfes.gov.uk

Developing Emotional Health and Well-being (PDF)
www.standards.dfes.gov.uk

Emotional Literacy and Self-Harm (PDF)
Emotional Literacy and Self-harm