#Japan #Tokyo #Emotional Intelligence #summer learning #Parenting Workshop

The Importance of EQ in Parenting During Summer

Summer is a time for children to take a break from school, but it can also be a challenging period for parents. Children often have more time on their hands, leading to an increase in clashes over screen time, chores, and maintaining a healthy daily routine. As parents, we might find ourselves repeatedly saying, "Why won't they listen?" or resorting to harsher tones out of frustration. During this time, it becomes crucial to approach parenting with the right strategies.

The upcoming online workshop, "Geiti Iwasawa's EQ Parenting/Summer Seminar 2026," hosted by Parenting Journey Lab, aims to address these concerns. Geiti Iwasawa, the founder of Shonan International School and a seasoned educator with a background in emotional intelligence (EQ), will guide parents through effective ways to support their children's emotional growth and instill self-confidence.

Understanding Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

Emotional Intelligence, or EQ, refers to the ability to recognize and manage our own emotions and those of others. It contrasts with IQ, which measures intellectual capacity. While IQ is often seen as a fixed trait, studies indicate that EQ can be developed through daily interactions and practices.

Addressing Low Self-Esteem in Japanese Children

Statistics show a concerning trend in Japan, where only 45.1% of young people express satisfaction with themselves, a stark contrast to 86.9% in the U.S. This persistent issue correlates with rising bullying and school absenteeism rates. Building a strong emotional foundation in children, where they feel secure and valued, is a pressing concern for many families.

What Does it Take to Build Self-Esteem?

Many believe that simply praising children will boost their self-esteem. However, research suggests that recognizing children’s feelings and engaging with them meaningfully is even more vital. Acknowledging good behavior and having honest conversations about emotions can empower children to confront their feelings and actions. But how do we initiate this dialogue, especially in families where such discussions are uncommon?

The Need for EQ Education in Japan

In the U.S., social and emotional learning (SEL) is becoming standard in schools, yet Japan is still catching up. Although guidelines for introducing SEL were revised in 2022 by the Ministry of Education, implementation remains inconsistent across institutions. The workshop led by Iwasawa is an effort to bring EQ-based education to the wider community, providing practical strategies for families to apply during summer.

Workshop Details

The session will be held via Zoom on July 25th and July 29th, 2026. It will last 60 minutes, featuring both interactive segments and a Q&A session for parents to seek clarification on their parenting challenges. The participation fee is 1,500 yen, and upon registration, participants will receive a digital PDF summarizing key points discussed during the workshop.

Instructor Profile

Geiti Iwasawa, a pioneer in EQ education in Japan, has significantly contributed to child-rearing practices through her extensive background in coaching and workshops. Having established Shonan International School, Iwasawa continues to bring emotional intelligence practices into the educational landscape in Japan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the summer break is an excellent opportunity for parents to reflect on their relationships with their children. This workshop seeks to empower parents with valuable insights into nurturing their children's emotional intelligence, reducing common conflicts around routine activities, and ultimately fostering an environment where self-esteem can flourish. This can lead to healthy, happy children who are equipped to face life's challenges with confidence.

To register for the workshop and learn more, please visit Parenting Journey Lab’s Website.