What is high sensitivity?
In practice, high sensitivity is sometimes confused with ADHD or autism. However, this is incorrect; high sensitivity is a character trait, not a limitation or behavioral disorder. Being highly sensitive has recently been scientifically proven: during various studies, higher than average activity has been observed in different parts of the brain at the same time. Especially during processing situations involving emotions and social situations, this brain activity is observed. Elaine Aron, a Canadian psychotherapist, has been researching high sensitivity for decades. Her research shows that nearly 20% of children are highly sensitive. Elaine also teaches us that we need to realize that today’s society is moving faster, which results in more stimuli for children and more and more is expected of them This is one of the causes of high sensitivity.
Important: Many highly sensitive people are good at sensing things, caring for others, showing empathy, and helping. This is why highly sensitive people often work in healthcare, education, or people-oriented professions. High sensitivity can greatly enrich life.
What makes high sensitivity challenging for a child?
Because the senses of a highly sensitive child are extra sensitive, they experience more unwanted stimuli. A child may be bothered by:
- Hearing: The sound of a dripping faucet, the phone or doorbell ringing repeatedly, loud music, and loud noises from other children.
- Sight: Bright lights, flickering fluorescent lights, and lots of movement.
- Smell: Strong or unpleasant smells, like manure or perfume, are experienced intensely.
- Taste: Sharp flavors, bits in food, or the texture of food in their mouth. Hunger can also lead to irritability.
- Touch: A wet swimsuit, sand between their toes, labels or seams in clothing, and the feeling of grass or sand on their feet are experienced as very intense. They have extra sensitive skin.
- Atmosphere Sensitivity: They are sensitive to tension or conflict in others. They can sense others’ emotions acutely and may internalize them, feeling responsible.
How to help a highly sensitive child
If you suspect your child is highly sensitive, help them by showing understanding and allowing them to be themselves. A highly sensitive child, like any other child, has strengths and weaknesses. You can support your child by appointing their strengths. If your child feels insecure, observe closely to see what they can do independently and where you can challenge them to take one step further. If they don’t succeed, praise them for trying.
Common strengths of highly sensitive children:
- They are caring
- They often have a strong sense of responsibility
- They have an excellent memory
- They have an eye for detail
- They are creative
- They have strong empathy
- They value justice
- They have strong intuition
- They are very social
- They strive for perfection
Common pitfalls of a highly sensitive child:
- They may have a fear of failure
- They find it hard to say “no”
- They don’t want to disappoint others
- They internalize others’ emotions
- They may avoid speaking in large groups
- They may struggle to control their emotions
- They often experience headaches and don’t sleep well
What else can you do?
Highly sensitive children especially just need time. They need to do things at their own pace. They prefer to be well-prepared for what’s coming. Let them experience things on their own. For example, instead of explaining that you’re going to visit new neighbors, just go there and let your child come along and see that it’s not scary. This provides reassurance. If your child is going to school or after-school care for the first time, explain that your child is highly sensitive and may prefer to stand at the back near the door and observe their surroundings for the first few weeks. This takes longer than with other children. If your child has a challenging day, end the day on a positive note. Before bedtime, take time to review the day with your child. Have them name three positive moments from the day that they are proud of. This helps them end the day with a good feeling and brings them peace.
Highly sensitive children in our daycare
We have pedagogical coaches who support the group staff. They can provide tips on handling highly sensitive children in the group. If you know your child is highly sensitive, please let us know, so we know how to handle certain situations. Here are a few tips: we know that playing outside helps when there is tension due to fear or a conflict between children. This allows the child to release their tension. Since overstimulation often manifests in angry outbursts or sadness, we often create a “quiet space” to prevent overstimulation. Here, children can read, draw, or listen to calming music. If your highly sensitive child attends daycare, ask the staff to keep you well-informed about your child’s experiences, both positive and negative. This way, you’ll know what’s going on.