Emotional Intelligence and the Triple “A”: Foundations for Inclusive Education

Emotional Intelligence and the Triple A: Foundations for Inclusive Education

By Yirgalem M. Habte, PhD.

In an inclusive classroom, students bring diverse needs, strengths, and emotions. To truly support them, educators must do more than differentiate instructions; we must create environments where every learner feels emotionally safe and seen. This begins with emotional intelligence (EI).

One of the tools I’ve used with great success is the rider and elephant metaphor from “The Happiness Hypothesis book” by Professor Jonathan H. In this model, the rider is rational, logical, thoughtful, and goal oriented. The elephant is the emotional mind, which is powerful, instinctive, sources of motivation, and often impulsive.

I teach students to recognize that both the rider and elephant matter. When they learn how to balance reason and emotion, especially during stress or conflict, they gain control, confidence, and compassion. This awareness transforms how they behave, relate, and learn. But emotional intelligence alone isn’t enough. Students need their core emotional needs met. That’s where my Triple “A” model comes in:

• Acceptance – Every student is welcomed exactly as they are.

• Appreciation – Their strengths and contributions are seen and valued.

• Affection – They experience warmth, kindness, and emotional safety.

When we combine EI with the Triple “A” approach, we don’t just create inclusive classrooms; we create communities of belonging. And when students feel accepted, appreciated, and cared for, their “elephants” will settle, and real learning begins to take place. In conclusion, inclusion starts with the heart. Let’s lead with emotional intelligence and build classrooms where every rider and elephant are guided with empathy and grace.