Understanding a highly sensitive child: How to strengthen your sensitive child

If your child quickly feels overwhelmed by noises, smells or moods, this could be due to high sensitivity. Parents of highly sensitive children often face unique challenges - and this is exactly where this article comes in. Find out how you can recognize your child's special needs and provide powerful support in everyday life - with lots of empathy, specific tips and a free workbook to help you.

What does high sensitivity actually mean?

High sensitivity is not a Diagnosisbut a personality trait. According to US psychologist Elaine Aron, around 15-20 % of people are considered highly sensitive. Highly sensitive children perceive stimuli more intensely and process them more deeply - which can make them very empathetic, but also exhausted more quickly.

Typical characteristics of highly sensitive children:

Many parents recognize themselves in the following situations without being able to classify them. If you recognize these experiences, your child could be highly sensitive:

• Your child reacts strongly to loud noises or bright light.
• It likes to withdraw after exciting experiences.
• It shows an exceptionally deep empathy for others.
• Criticism is particularly harsh.
• Transitions - e.g. from kindergarten to home - are often very challenging.

Everyday life with a highly sensitive child: between a feat of strength and a gift

Highly sensitive children need empathetic support, especially in hectic everyday life. This can sometimes push parents to their limits - but it also opens up deep connection and intense closeness.

You should pay particular attention to this:

Before we get to specific tips, one thing is important: Highly sensitive children are not "problem children". They simply need a loving environment that appreciates and protects their fine perception.

• Avoid sensory overload: Plan rest periods after exciting situations.
• Create rituals: Recurring structures provide security.
• Acknowledge feelings: Say, for example, "I can see that this is really moving you right now."
• Set boundaries lovingly: Highly sensitive children need support - clear and empathetic.
• Patience in social situations: Your child decides for themselves when to open up.

Empowering communication: How to reach your child emotionally

Many highly sensitive children quickly feel misunderstood or overwhelmed when they want to express their emotions. That's why your way of communicating is crucial.

How to use sensitive language in everyday life:

First of all, your child not only hears what you say, but as. Voice, facial expressions and body language have a particularly strong effect on highly sensitive children.

• Use "I" messages instead of assigning blame
• Ask about inner images: "How does it feel in your stomach?"
• Maintain emotional closeness: Attentive listening works wonders
• Allow breaks: Highly sensitive children need time to respond

"Accompanying a highly sensitive child means being an inner beacon - steadfast, warm and full of direction." - Markus Hofmann, expert Greator learning coach

What you can take with you as a mom or dad

Accompanying a highly sensitive child is a journey - sometimes challenging, but always full of opportunities. If you are prepared to engage with your child's subtle signals, a very special relationship will develop. It is not your goal to "change" your child, but to encourage them in their uniqueness.

And right here you can Greator with profound impulses, empathic coaching and concrete tools for your everyday family life.