This article examines the role of emotional intelligence in developing the communicative and personal development of primary school students. The findings contribute to the development of various approaches to understanding emotional intelligence as a key factor in a child's successful social adaptation during primary school. The study also contributes to existing understandings of the age-related manifestations of emotional intelligence and its relationship with personality traits and interpersonal behavior. The practical significance of the study lies in the potential application of the findings in pedagogical and psychological practice. The developed diagnostic materials and game-based methods can be used by teachers, school psychologists, and social workers in remedial and developmental work with primary school students. Furthermore, the study's findings can be incorporated into emotional intelligence training programs, into school maladjustment prevention systems, and into continuing education courses for teaching staff.