Nurturing Spiritual Intelligence (SQ) in the Early Years: The Missing Piece in Holistic Education
In early childhood education and care, we’re used to thinking holistically—nurturing children’s social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development. But there’s a deeper layer of human growth that’s often overlooked: Spiritual Intelligence (SQ).
Let’s be clear from the outset:
Spiritual Intelligence is not about religion. It’s not tied to any belief system or faith tradition. Instead, SQ is about the innate human capacity for meaning, connection, wonder, and compassion. It’s the part of us—of every child—that seeks to belong, to understand their place in the world, and to connect with something greater than themselves, whether that's nature, community, or a sense of inner knowing.
In children aged 0 to 6, we see SQ expressed in their:
sense of awe and curiosity
love of nature and animals
deep empathy for others
spontaneous moments of stillness or joy
big questions about life and the world around them
These moments are not “nice extras”—they are central to the human experience. And in early learning environments, we have a powerful opportunity to nurture and protect this inner wisdom.
Why Does SQ Matter in Early Learning?
The early years are a time of incredible sensitivity, when children are forming lifelong patterns of emotional regulation, self-awareness, and interpersonal connection. Supporting SQ helps children:
build resilience and emotional strength
develop a strong sense of identity and belonging
connect with their inner world and values
make sense of their feelings, questions, and experiences
Rather than focusing solely on skills or behaviour, SQ reminds us to honour the whole child, including their inner life—their spirit.
SQ in Practice: Reflected in Leading Frameworks
Although it’s not always named, Spiritual Intelligence is already embedded in many of the world’s leading early childhood frameworks and philosophies.
🌱 Reggio Emilia (Italy)
Reggio Emilia recognises children as competent, creative, and full of potential. Through child-led inquiry, artistic expression, and connection with nature, it nurtures the meaning-making and emotional depth that are at the heart of SQ.
🌏 Te Whāriki (New Zealand)
Te Whāriki explicitly values mana atua—the spiritual wellbeing of each child. The curriculum supports holistic learning, viewing spirituality as connected to belonging, contribution, and emotional safety within whānau and community.
🇺🇸 NAEYC (United States)
The NAEYC’s Developmentally Appropriate Practice highlights individual identity, cultural responsiveness, and emotional security—all of which reflect the foundations of SQ. Trust, reflection, and relationships are core to its approach.
🇦🇺 National Quality Framework (Australia)
Australia’s EYLF (Belonging, Being & Becoming) supports spiritual development through:
Outcome 1: Children have a strong sense of identity
Outcome 2: Children are connected with and contribute to their world
Outcome 3: Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
Through child-led learning, time in nature, and meaningful connections, educators already support the development of SQ—often without naming it.
Supporting SQ in Daily Practice
You don’t need a new program to support SQ. It begins with intention and presence.
Here are some simple ways to nurture spiritual intelligence:
Create quiet, calming spaces for reflection or wonder
Invite open-ended conversations about dreams, nature, or the stars
Encourage imaginative play and storytelling
Model authenticity, gratitude, and empathy
Honour cultural and spiritual practices with sensitivity and respect
Allow time for unhurried play and meaningful connection
These moments allow children to connect with themselves, others, and the world in ways that are deep and lasting.
SQ: A Foundation for Lifelong Wellbeing
In a world that’s increasingly fast-paced and focused on outcomes, nurturing SQ gives children something invaluable: a sense of wholeness. It helps them stay connected to who they are, what matters to them, and how they belong in the world.
By bringing Spiritual Intelligence into our conversations and our practice, we are not adding something new—we are remembering something essential.