Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
Building Resilience Through Emotional Intelligence
We‘re sure the last thing you expected to be asked today was where you rate on an Alpaca Scale.
Yet we are equally positive that you could quickly identify parts of your day that relate to at least one of these pictures (if not all of them). While light-hearted, this simple check-in highlights something powerful, our ability to recognise and connect with our emotions. At Marist Regional College, we see emotional intelligence as the keystone of building resilience in our young people, and one of the most effective ways to begin is by simply noticing how we feel.
Research tells us that when we can notice, identify and label our emotions, we reduce their intensity and are better able to respond calmly and thoughtfully. This is a skill that develops over time, and one that young people particularly need support with as they navigate the significant physical, social and emotional changes of adolescence. As adults, the language we use matters. Shifting from “I am angry” to “I notice I am feeling frustrated” creates space between the person and the emotion, helping both adults and young people regulate more effectively.
A simple and engaging way families can begin this process at home is through quick emotional “mood board” check-ins, much like the Alpaca Scale. These visual prompts remove pressure, spark laughter, and open the door for meaningful conversations. They also build empathy, as children begin to recognise that others may be experiencing different emotions to their own.
Importantly, research shows that strong emotional awareness and connection contribute to lower stress levels, improved emotional regulation, and faster recovery from challenges. Something as simple as a shared laugh over a “which alpaca are you today?” moment can strengthen relationships and create a safe space for deeper conversations.
Emotional intelligence also begins in the body. Helping young people to notice physical signals; tight shoulders, a racing heart, or feeling overwhelmed, allows them to act before emotions escalate. Strategies such as mindful breathing, taking a short break, or using simple grounding techniques can support both adults and students to stay regulated. When young people see adults modelling these behaviours, they learn that emotions are normal, manageable, and safe to express.
At home, families can further support wellbeing by embedding small, consistent practices:
- Connection moments (device-free dinners, car chats, walks)
- Gratitude rituals (sharing a highlight of the day)
- Mood boosters such as music, movement and laughter, all of which are shown to lift emotions and reset mindset
It is also important to remember that resilience is not about removing challenge. In fact, allowing young people to experience setbacks, with support, helps them build confidence in their ability to cope and grow. Our role is not to solve every problem, but to stand alongside our young people as they work through them.
Ultimately, emotional intelligence is not built in big moments, but in the small, everyday interactions: the check-ins, the conversations, the shared laughter, and the calm presence we offer. By helping young people to name what they feel, we empower them to manage it. And in doing so, we equip them with one of the most important life skills of all: the ability to navigate life with resilience, empathy and confidence.
Parents and carers, you are doing an incredible job. Together, through strong partnerships between home and school, we continue to support our young people in becoming emotionally aware, resilient and compassionate individuals.
Yours in partnership,
Mrs Niamh Baly and Mr Stephen Eddington
Directors: Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
We acknowledge and pay respect to the original and ongoing custodians of the land. We acknowledge the continuing connection to land, seas, air and waterways and commit ourselves to the ongoing journey of reconciliation. We honour Elders, past, present and emerging.