How do I know if I have a highly sensitive child?

It is common for young children to be easily upset by small things. The breaking of a toy, a wish not fulfilled, the refusal of a friend to play with them. All these things could cause a child to be angry and upset. At times, they even cause furious outbursts. These are natural in small children.     

However, in a highly sensitive child, reactions are more often extreme and highly melodramatic, even for minor occurrences. Being very empathic and sensitive to others, at times, feelings of hurt and anger in others also tends to upset highly sensitive children. So if you think that your child is overreacting or reacting without cause, you could be dealing with a very sensitive child.    

How do I help my shy child?

Shy, sensitive children are usually very afraid of taking risks and trying out new things. Give them encouragement and slowly nudge them into making choices for themselves, always assuring them of your support. Similarly, if you need to punish them, a highly public yelling is only making matters worse with them. Try quieter, gentler ways of pointing out their mistakes. Do not compare him with others; for a highly sensitive child this could be very troubling. Guide them and give them the confidence of being able to make decisions and face the world.

There is however another aspect to this problem. Parents of sensitive children want to provide as much support to their children as possible. This is most welcome and to be encouraged at all times. However, support at times tends to grow into an all enveloping security blanket for the sensitive child. Parents are so afraid of their child getting upset, that they tend to spend hours with the child, playing with her or talking to her just so she is happy. Instead of allowing the child to explore, experience and then support her in her success or failure, parents tend to become overprotective.

This only makes matters worse, as the child grows her reactions become more extreme and she takes it for granted that her parents will be there to help her through various problems. They often become more whiny and more demanding till the parents themselves are unable to cope any more. This only worsens the situation.

The best way to deal with highly sensitive children is to have faith in them and to help them develop faith in themselves. Understand that life experiences, at times painful, at times joyful are what help us develop emotionally. Finally, never jump to your child’s rescue. Allow him the freedom to deal with it as best as he can but assure him of your support always.

Help a sensitive child grow up with confidence and they will use their talents to empathize and help others in this world.

Popularity: 64%