Have you ever seen a child get angry easily or cry excessively when he hears other people's jokes or when he doesn't get toys like his friends? It is possible that children with these characteristics are psychologically sensitive children.
By definition, a sensitive child is a child born with a nervous system that is more alert and reacts quickly to things happening around him. At least, there are about 15–20% of children who are born that way.
Children are not only sensitive to other people's actions or words, but also to smells, sounds, light, even mood the people around him, and not infrequently associated with indigo children. Toddlers who are quite sensitive are not even able to read the emotions of their parents, you know, Mother.
Weaknesses and Strengths of Sensitive Children
Parenting an overly sensitive child can be a challenge. Sensitive children will usually feel overwhelmed by certain circumstances, for example when they see other people depressed, in new situations, experiencing sudden changes, or being in a crowd.
In addition, sometimes sensitive children will also be hesitant in trying new things and have difficulty dealing with stress or frustration. Not to mention if he is labeled as an angry child, a crybaby, or a shy child. This can make it difficult for him to interact with other people.
However, behind the disadvantages, sensitive children also have special advantages. He tends to be more caring, compassionate, gentle, and more empathetic. For example, a sensitive child will defend a child who is being bullied (bullying), because he can feel what his friend is feeling.
In addition, sensitive children tend to be more creative and have deep thoughts. If directed properly, sensitive children can express their emotions to be creative, such as in pictures, music, or other works. This character is actually owned by many artists and inventors, you know, Bun. Children who can control their emotions well also tend to have good emotional intelligence (EQ).
Tips for Accompanying Sensitive Children
According to psychologists, parenting patterns, especially at an early age, will determine whether this sensitive trait will become something that is troubling or will become an advantage for children.
Therefore, if you have a sensitive child, you are advised to accompany him appropriately, so that later he will be able to manage his emotions well and positively.
The following are some guidelines for parents of sensitive children:
1. Accept the child's sensitive nature as something positive
Neither parent nor any psychologist can turn a sensitive child into a more insensitive or indifferent child like other children. However, parents can manage that sensitive nature into a plus.
So, the first step you can take is to accept your little one's sensitive nature, then make it something positive.
2. Discipline the child gently
Disciplining a sensitive child harshly will only make him more depressed and risk causing an energy explosion at one time, such as a tantrum. In this case, it does not mean that sensitive children should not be disciplined. It's just that you have to know how to teach discipline properly.
One way is to use diplomatic sentences when advising him. For example, “Watch it in 5 minutes, okay? As promised, we sleep at 9 pm." These words will be better and accepted by the Little One than suddenly turning off the TV and telling him to sleep right away.
3. Teach children to manage emotions
When your little one cries, telling him to stop crying will only make his cry louder. Therefore, teach him to calm himself in other ways, for example by doing breathing exercises and distracting him by counting numbers 1-10. It can also train children to develop their emotional intelligence.
4. Ask the child to tell the reason for his action
If your little one is able to tell his experience, invite him to tell the reason why he is crying. After that, ask what they can do together to make him feel good. Mothers can also come up with ideas such as inviting friends to play at home, draw, or play in the park.
5. Turn bad moments into positive ones
If your little one is crying because they are being teased, you can turn this moment into a time for dialogue. Invite him to understand that it's okay to be different, and that he doesn't need to listen too much to what other people have to say.
Maybe your little one won't understand right away. But over time, Mother's words he will remember and build his confidence.
6. Give yourself some time
Children who are too sensitive tend to be easily influenced by situations in their environment, including at school and at home. Usually he needs a special place or activity that makes him calm.
For that, you can create a calm and comfortable atmosphere in a place that your little one likes. If necessary, put down a reading book, coloring book, or music player to help calm her feelings.
In addition to the things above, sensitivity can also be exacerbated by other conditions, such as lack of sleep, irregular eating patterns, and major changes such as the birth of a new sibling or changing schools. If this is the case, you can help your little one learn to adapt.
If your little one's sensitive attitude seems excessive to the point that his daily life and achievements are disrupted, it's a good idea to consult a child psychologist. This is important so that your little one can get the right direction, so that he can finally use his sensitive nature into something positive.
