THE HIGHLY SENSITIVE CHILD – The Healing Nest Play Therapy Center

High Sensitivity Temperament in Children

Elaine Aron, a psychologist and researcher, introduced the concept of Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs) in her book “The Highly Sensitive Child.” Here are some key facts about highly sensitive children based on her work:

Sensitivity as a Trait: Highly sensitive children (HSCs) have a temperamental trait called Sensory Processing Sensitivity (SPS). This trait means they have a heightened response to both positive and negative stimuli.
Depth of Processing: HSCs tend to process information deeply, which means they may think about and reflect on things more than other children. This can lead to greater creativity and insight but can also make them more prone to anxiety.
Overstimulation: Because of their heightened sensitivity, HSCs can become easily overwhelmed by their environment, especially in situations that are loud, chaotic, or filled with intense stimuli. They might need more downtime to recharge.
Emotional Reactivity and Empathy: HSCs often have strong emotional reactions and a high level of empathy. They may easily pick up on the emotions of others and feel them as if they were their own.
Sensitivity to Subtleties: These children are more aware of subtle changes in their environment and can notice things that others might overlook. This heightened awareness can help them in certain situations but can also be exhausting.
Need for Gentle Discipline: HSCs respond best to gentle, empathetic, and patient discipline rather than harsh or punitive measures. They thrive in environments where they feel understood and supported.

As a highly sensitive person (HSP) and therapist, I am uniquely positioned to support children, particularly those who are also highly sensitive. My personal understanding of the heightened sensitivity to environmental stimuli, deep emotional processing, and the need for gentle, empathetic interactions allows me to create a therapeutic environment that is attuned to the specific needs of highly sensitive children. Child-centered play therapy (CCPT) aligns perfectly with these needs, as its theoretical foundation emphasizes creating a safe, accepting space where children can express themselves freely and process their emotions at their own pace. This approach respects the inherent sensitivity of the child, fostering self-regulation, emotional resilience, and personal growth in a supportive and nurturing setting. High sensitivity is not a mental health diagnosis, it is a trait that exists in approximately 20% of the population however, it can bring about emotional and behavioral challenges without the right tools and support. If you feel your child meets the criteria above please contact us for a FREE consultation to learn more about how play therapy can help your child and your family.