Emotional intelligence plays a vital role in the healthy development of young children, influencing their social skills, behaviour, learning capacity, and overall wellbeing. The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Emotional Intelligence in Early Childhood is designed to equip participants with the essential knowledge and practical strategies needed to support emotional growth and resilience in early years settings.
This focused diploma programme explores how emotional intelligence develops in children from birth to age eight and provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the emotional and social needs that shape early development. It also highlights the importance of emotionally responsive environments and the role of caregivers in nurturing secure, confident, and emotionally literate children.
Throughout the 30-hour course, participants will engage with key topics such as emotional regulation, empathy, self-awareness, communication, and relationship-building in early childhood. The course also covers the identification and management of challenging emotions and behaviours, with a strong emphasis on promoting positive emotional climates in homes, nurseries, and early years classrooms.
This diploma is ideal for early years educators, childcare practitioners, teaching assistants, and professionals working with young children in healthcare, education, or social care settings. It also benefits those looking to enhance their own emotional intelligence and leadership skills when working in emotionally demanding roles.
OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Emotional Intelligence in Early Childhood
Study Units
Learning Outcomes
Foundations of Emotional Intelligence in Early Childhood (3 Hours)
- Define emotional intelligence and its significance in early childhood development
- Understand the key components of emotional intelligence in young children
- Recognise the long-term benefits of fostering emotional intelligence from an early age
- Identify the developmental stages where emotional intelligence begins to emerge
Understanding Emotional Development from Birth to Age Eight (3 Hours)
- Outline the stages of emotional development in early childhood
- Understand the neurological and psychological foundations of emotional growth
- Identify typical emotional milestones and variations in development
- Link emotional development with social and cognitive growth
The Role of Caregivers in Emotional Regulation (6 Hours)
- Understand how caregiver interactions influence a child’s emotional regulation
- Apply co-regulation techniques to support emotional control in young children
- Recognise the importance of secure attachment in emotional development
- Identify ways to model emotionally intelligent behaviour in daily interactions
Promoting Self-Awareness and Empathy in Young Children (3 Hours)
- Introduce age-appropriate methods to build self-awareness in children
- Teach empathy through play, storytelling, and guided interaction
- Support children in recognising and naming their emotions
- Encourage positive peer relationships through emotional understanding
Building Emotionally Supportive Learning Environments (3 Hours)
- Identify key elements of emotionally nurturing early years environments
- Implement strategies to create safe, inclusive, and responsive settings
- Recognise the role of routine, consistency, and structure in emotional security
- Promote emotional resilience through supportive adult-child relationships
Identifying and Managing Challenging Emotions and Behaviours (5 Hours)
- Understand the root causes of emotional and behavioural challenges
- Apply practical approaches to de-escalate emotional outbursts
- Support children in expressing emotions constructively
- Develop individual strategies for managing specific behavioural concerns
Communication Strategies for Emotional Literacy (4 Hours)
- Use language that encourages emotional expression and understanding
- Employ active listening techniques to support emotional validation
- Introduce visual tools and resources for non-verbal emotional communication
- Guide children in reflecting on their feelings and responses
Cultural and Social Influences on Emotional Development (3 Hours)
- Recognise the impact of cultural values on emotional expression and behaviour
- Understand family, community, and societal roles in emotional development
- Respect diverse emotional norms and practices in early years settings
- Promote inclusive practices that honour each child’s emotional background
Course Benefits – OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Emotional Intelligence in Early Childhood
- Enhances participants’ ability to support the emotional wellbeing of young children
- Develops practical skills for fostering empathy, self-awareness, and emotional regulation
- Equips participants with strategies to manage challenging emotions and behaviours effectively
- Strengthens communication techniques that promote emotional literacy in early learners
- Builds confidence in creating emotionally supportive and inclusive learning environments
- Deepens understanding of cultural and social factors influencing emotional development
- Encourages reflective practice to continuously improve emotional support strategies
- Prepares participants to respond to emotional needs with sensitivity and professionalism
- Supports career progression in early childhood education, care, and support roles
- Provides a recognised certification demonstrating expertise in emotional intelligence for early years settings
The OSHAA 30-Hours Diploma in Emotional Intelligence in Early Childhood is designed for professionals who work with young children and are committed to supporting their emotional and social development. This course is particularly suitable for:
- Early years educators and nursery practitioners
- Childcare professionals and support workers
- Teaching assistants and early childhood teaching staff
- Family support workers and child development specialists
- Professionals in healthcare or social care roles involving young children
- Individuals aiming to enhance their emotional intelligence in childcare settings
This diploma is ideal for participants seeking to improve their practice, promote emotional wellbeing, and create nurturing environments where young children can thrive emotionally, socially, and developmentally.
