Does my child have traits of high sensitivity?
“Therapist, my child is really difficult to manage. He is extremely stubborn, overly concerned about minor details, and often throw tantrums over trivial things. Comforting doesn’t work, scolding doesn’t help, and once their emotions are triggered, it can take half an hour for him to calm down. It’s so exhausting to care for him.”
This is a common sentiment among parents of certain children. Sometimes, however, parents also say: “But my child can be very thoughtful too. They notice when family members or classmates need help, are caring, and show great empathy.”

 If your child exhibits these traits, we encourage you to read the following descriptions to better identify highly sensitive children:

• Often notice details or changes that others overlook, such as a teacher’s new outfit or furniture that has been moved.
• Complain easily when uncomfortable, e.g., itchy clothing tags, tight socks, or strong odors.
• Refuse certain foods due to smell or texture.
• Feel stressed or exhausted in noisy, chaotic environments.
• Prefer to complete tasks carefully and orderly, dislike changes or unexpected arrangements, and are easily startled or anxious.
• May have better observation skills than peers.
• Possess a clever sense of humor.
• Strong ability to understand others and show empathy; can accurately infer others’ thoughts and feelings, but are also easily influenced by others’ emotions.
• Have difficulty letting go of intense emotions such as anger or worry.

Research shows that the development of highly sensitive children are more strongly influenced by the quality of the parent–child relationship. With a lack of support, or under harsh and critical parenting, they are more likely to develop emotional and behavioral problems.

So, what can caregivers do to support highly sensitive children?

• Create a predictable environment, explain consequences and options in advance, and enforce rules gently but firmly.
• Practice mindfulness and emotional awareness. Help children slow down and notice emotional cues (such as body language and facial expressions). Meditation and mindfulness activities are excellent. Recommended book: “Sitting Still Like a Frog – Mindfulness Exercises for Kids. and Their Parents”
• Be your child’s “emotional coach.” Notice their emotions, help them label feelings, empathize with their experiences, and practice emotional regulation daily. Parents can model and try role-play.
• Inform teachers or other adults about the child’s traits and possible challenges.
• When children make good use of their sensitivity, let them know that you are proud of their “sensitivity.”
• Stay curious about your child’s world. Set aside one-on-one parent–child time, ask open-ended questions (e.g., “What challenges did you face today?” instead of “You got in trouble again today, didn’t you?”), and try to understand their experiences.
• Caregivers should also find their own sources of support to avoid burnout, and seek professional parenting consultation if needed.

Every highly sensitive child is unique. We can choose approaches that suit them best. If their sensitivity leads to significant difficulties in daily life, emotions, or relationships, professional medical evaluation and intervention are recommended.