If your child seems to feel everything more deeply—the joy, the fear, the frustration—you may be raising a highly sensitive child. These kids are wonderfully empathetic, intuitive, and perceptive… but they can also become overwhelmed by things others hardly notice.
If you’ve ever been told your child is “too sensitive,” or you’ve questioned whether you're doing something wrong, take a deep breath: you're not. And your child’s sensitivity isn’t something that needs to be fixed.
In fact, it’s a strength—when understood and supported well.
What Is a Highly Sensitive Child?
A highly sensitive child (HSC) is wired to take in more information from the world around them—and to feel it more intensely. The term comes from research by Dr. Elaine Aron, who identified “sensory processing sensitivity” as a normal trait found in about 15–20% of children.
HSCs often:
- Notice small details or shifts in mood
- React strongly to sensory input (lights, sounds, textures)
- Struggle with transitions or surprises
- Need time to warm up in new environments
- Ask deep or existential questions, even at a young age
It’s not a disorder. It’s a temperament. And it often comes with incredible emotional intelligence and insight—if nurtured with care.
Why Parenting a Sensitive Child Feels So Intense
Parenting an HSC can be both beautiful and exhausting. These kids might melt down over scratchy socks, collapse after school from sensory overload, or spiral when routines shift.
And because they feel things deeply, they often need more co-regulation, more reassurance, and more recovery time than other kids.
This can leave even the most patient parent feeling drained, second-guessing, or overwhelmed.
If that’s you, know this: it’s not because you’re doing it wrong. It’s because you’re parenting a child whose nervous system is working on high alert.
What Highly Sensitive Kids Don’t Need
Let’s clear something up. Sensitive kids are often misunderstood as:
- Overreacting
- Manipulative
- “Just being dramatic”
But shaming them into “toughening up” doesn’t build resilience—it builds disconnection.
They don’t need to be pushed through discomfort before they’re ready. They don’t need to be told they’re too much. They need to know they’re safe, accepted, and supported exactly as they are.
What They Do Need From You
1. Emotional Validation
Start with, “I see you. It makes sense you feel that way.”
This doesn't mean you're agreeing with their behavior—but you're helping them feel understood, which is calming in itself.
2. Preparation and Predictability
Let them know what’s coming next. Transitions can be hard for HSCs. Simple routines and gentle heads-ups can reduce anxiety and help them feel more in control.
3. Downtime to Decompress
After school, after social events, after anything—these kids need space to recover. Quiet play, solo time, or just a snuggle can help them reset.
4. Co-regulation Over Consequences
When your child is overwhelmed, they need your calm presence more than they need discipline. Model slow breathing, speak gently, and stay close. You’re teaching their nervous system how to settle.
The Gift of Sensitivity
It’s easy to see sensitivity as a problem when your child cries easily, gets overwhelmed often, or explodes in frustration. But sensitivity is also what makes them thoughtful, caring, and full of heart.
When we protect that trait while teaching our kids tools to navigate the world, we’re raising humans who lead with empathy, not shame.
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
If you’re raising a highly sensitive child, it’s okay to need support. Parenting these incredible kids requires more intention—and more self-care—than many expect.
Our coaches at 15 Summers specialize in helping parents like you find practical strategies and more peace at home.
Get matched with a coach who truly understands.