What do people actually experience when they’re around your kid?

In this episode of the YouSchool Podcast, Scott Schimmel explores one of the most underrated (and most essential) life skills: social awareness. It’s a core part of emotional intelligence—and it shapes how kids show up in the world, build relationships, and get included… or left out.

Scott breaks down why every kid needs to develop social awareness, especially in a world full of screens, sarcasm, and isolation. And he shares practical ways parents can help kids become more tuned in to how they come across to others—without guilt, shame, or awkward lectures.

Whether your kid is super social or socially unsure, this episode will give you tools to:

• Ask the right reflective questions

• Gently give feedback without shutting them down

• Model emotional intelligence in your own life

• Make reflection feel normal (not forced)

Because kids who grow in self-awareness and social awareness? They’re the ones people trust, include, and follow.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Social awareness isn’t just “being nice”—it’s noticing how you impact others

• Most kids aren’t naturally good at this (especially if they’re anxious or neurodivergent)

• Emotional intelligence is learned—and needs practice, modeling, and feedback

• Asking the right questions plants the seed for lifelong growth

🕒 Timestamps:

0:00 – Intro to the 30 Critical Questions
1:45 – What is social awareness and why does it matter?
4:10 – A personal story that changed Scott’s life
7:00 – Emotional intelligence vs. just being “smart”
10:15 – What happens when kids don’t develop social awareness
13:25 – The power of feedback and modeling
17:00 – Practical tips for helping your kid build social awareness
22:00 – The long-term impact on relationships and confidence
25:00 – Reflective questions to ask your kid this week

👇 Try This at Home:

Ask your kid: “How do you think you come across to others?”
Then listen. Really listen. And let the seed grow.