Parenting the sensitive child comes with its own set of challenges.
My daughter feels things deeply. She is the kid that only requires a “look of disapproval” when she disobeys for her to crumble in submission. My husband and I have had to learn not to raise our voice in correction, or there is a quick, downward spiral. E wants to please, and her sensitivity can be hard to navigate sometimes.
Though I wasn’t the best at respecting her sensitivity in the first few years as her dad and I are fairly resilient, I’ve learned some tips and tricks for how to be a better parent to her. It’s still something I’m learning and improving daily, but here is a good place to start:
1. Provide comfort with correction.
Correction is tough for the sensitive child, so it’s important to provide a sense of comfort to avoid this type of child from completely shutting down and missing the lesson to learn. For my daughter, that comfort is eye contact and physical touch. Figure out what works for your child and implement that comfort along with your correction.
2. Teach problem-solving methods.
My daughter may still be sensitive, but she has come a LONG way! She used to feel defeated by any minor problem, but through the use of teaching problem-solving skills, she has now been able to remain strong through what she used to consider a “difficult circumstance.” For example, she is often afraid while she is falling asleep and would immediately call out for her dad or me multiple times a night. We taught her that there were other ways to solve her problems before relying on us to come to her rescue. For example, she now says a prayer, smells the essential oils we put on her wrist and then chooses a happy thought to think about. If those things don’t work, she then calls for us. But often she’s able to comfort herself in this way both at night and throughout the day.
3. Offer a calming corner in the home.
We wrote a post all about the magic of a calming corner here. This is a place in your home that children can go to find the peace that their sensitive souls need. Everything you need to know about what to include in the corner and why it’s important can be found in the post linked above!
4. Be a safe place.
Sensitive children often feel rejected in this world. Their sensitivity is viewed as a “weakness,” so it’s important to teach your kids that their thoughtfulness and caring hearts are actually strengths, and they can be PROUD of their sensitivity! It’s also important to be the safe place for your sensitive children to come and express themselves knowing you will listen and be there at all times.
If you’re not sure whether or not your child is sensitive or are looking for ways to further support your children’s differences, read this in-depth post and use the printables you can find over on The Daily Positive: How To Successfully Parent Your Children’s Differences
What are some successful ways you parent your sensitive child? Tell us in the comments!
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