How Stories Like “I Wish My Mommy Was an Octopus” Build Emotional IQ
When you think about raising smart kids, your mind might go to math drills, spelling tests, or science projects. But there’s another kind of intelligence that shapes a child’s future just as much, if not more, than academics. It’s called Emotional IQ. This ability to understand, manage, and express emotions while also recognizing the feelings of others is a foundation for strong relationships, confidence, and resilience.
One of the most powerful tools for building Emotional IQ is surprisingly simple: stories.
Why Emotional IQ Matters
Emotional IQ, sometimes called EQ, helps kids in every area of life. Children who develop it early are more likely to navigate friendships successfully, manage challenges without shutting down, and express their feelings in healthy ways. Unlike academic subjects, Emotional IQ doesn’t come from memorizing, it grows through experience, guidance, and reflection.
Stories as Emotional Mirrors
Books give children the chance to “try on” emotions safely. When they read about characters who feel frustrated, joyful, lonely, or brave, kids begin to see their own feelings reflected. This not only validates what they’re experiencing but also helps them find words for emotions that might otherwise feel overwhelming.
For example, a child reading about a character who feels left out learns that those feelings are normal, temporary, and manageable. Stories act as mirrors that gently say: “You are not alone.”
Stories as Emotional Windows
Just as stories reflect children’s emotions back to them, they also act as windows into other people’s experiences. A silly book about a penguin who’s nervous about dancing or a heartfelt story about a child missing their parent helps kids imagine how others feel. That’s empathy in action, the cornerstone of Emotional IQ.
A Story That Blends Humor and Heart
Erin Shular’s I Wish My Mommy Was an Octopus is a wonderful example of how stories build Emotional IQ. While the playful idea of a mom with eight arms makes kids laugh, the deeper message connects to real emotions: children wanting more time, more attention, and more love. By engaging with the silliness, kids also absorb empathy and reassurance. They learn that their needs matter and that love stretches across busy schedules.
Final Thoughts
Raising emotionally intelligent kids doesn’t require complicated strategies. It can be as simple as opening a book together. Through silly, heartfelt, and imaginative stories, children discover that emotions are valid, empathy matters, and love is always present.
Grab your copy of I Wish My Mommy Was an Octopus today and start building your child’s Emotional IQ in the most joyful way. Whether it’s at bedtime, story hour, or a quiet afternoon cuddle, this playful book turns reading into a bonding experience, helping your child laugh, love, and grow into a more empathetic, confident version of themselves.