When we talk about preparing children for the future, we often focus on academic readiness—letters, numbers, and school skills. But one of the most important things we can give children is something less visible, yet far more foundational:
Emotional Intelligence.
Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize and name feelings, manage emotions, show empathy, and build healthy relationships. And while that may sound like something that comes later in life—it starts right here, in early childhood. And it starts with play.
In play, children practice navigating big feelings. When they build a tower and it falls, they learn to cope with frustration. When a friend wants the same toy, they negotiate, compromise, or sometimes, fall apart and try again. When they play house, superheroes, or school, they’re exploring identity, roles, fairness, and belonging. These are not just games. They are rehearsals for real life.
At DAZI, we don’t jump in to “fix” every problem or prevent every disagreement. Instead, we stay close. We observe. We offer the words when they’re needed:
“It looks like you’re feeling left out.”
“You were really hoping to use that truck.”
“I see you're upset—let’s breathe together.”
We support children as they learn to notice what they’re feeling and what others might be feeling too. Over time, they begin to internalize these tools—and we start to hear them using the same language with each other. “I’m mad, but I’m going to breathe.” or “You can have a turn when I’m done.”
This work—this invisible, powerful work—is woven into every part of our day. It doesn’t happen in a lesson plan. It happens during snack time, block play, muddy puddles, and moments of joy and heartbreak. Emotional intelligence is not taught to children—it’s built with them, over time, in the safety of trusting relationships.
Because the truth is, children can’t truly learn if their emotional needs aren’t met. A regulated brain is a learning brain. And at DAZI, we believe that helping children feel safe, seen, and supported is the most important curriculum we could ever follow.
So yes, your child is learning through play. But they’re not just learning colors or numbers. They’re learning how to be human—and how to navigate a world that will require emotional strength, empathy, and connection.
And that, to us, is everything.
Rosetta
