Author: Yanna Noboa LICSW, CCPT| Child Therapy
Highly sensitive children (HSC) possess unique traits and characteristics that require special attention and understanding from parents, caregivers, and educators. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the acronym “DOES,” which encapsulates the key traits associated with highly sensitive children, and explore the concept of the “pause to check system,” a coping mechanism commonly observed in HSC.
Exploring “DOES”:
Let’s start by breaking down the acronym “DOES,” which represents Depth of Processing, Overstimulation, Emotional Intensity, and Sensitivity to Subtleties. Each of these traits plays a crucial role in shaping the experiences and responses of highly sensitive children.
“D” – Depth of Processing:
Highly sensitive children tend to process information deeply, reflecting on experiences and stimuli more profoundly than others. This heightened level of processing allows them to glean deeper insights and connections from their surroundings, making them keen observers of the world around them.
“O” – Overstimulation:
One of the challenges faced by highly sensitive children is overstimulation. They can easily become overwhelmed by excessive sensory input or emotional stimuli, leading to feelings of anxiety or discomfort. Managing overstimulation is key to creating environments where HSC can feel calm and secure.
Examples of Depth Processing and Overstimulation:
Difficulty going to sleep after an exciting day
Extreme reaction to change and pain
Sensitivity to loud noises
The need for extra downtime or a quiet place
Avoidance of overstimulating activities such as sports, parties, or speaking up in class
“E” – Emotional Intensity:
Emotions are experienced with greater depth and intensity by highly sensitive children. They react strongly to both positive and negative feelings, demonstrating heightened empathy and compassion towards others. It’s important for parents and caregivers to validate and support their emotional experiences, helping them navigate the complex world of emotions.
Emotions are guides that help us pay attention to important things about ourselves and our environment. Helps us pay attention to what to learn from and memorize.
For example:
If a child is happy at the playground with grandparents and also happy at home with grandparents anytime they are with grandparents they know they are safe, happy and what to expect within that relationship. This pleasant emotion helps the child act according and feel accordingly.
“S” – Sensitivity to Subtleties:
Highly sensitive children are particularly attuned to subtle cues in their environment, such as changes in mood or nonverbal communication. This heightened sensitivity allows them to pick up on nuances that others may overlook, enabling deeper connections and understanding in their interactions with others.
Examples of Sensitivity to Subtleties:
Slight changes in appearance of people and places
Recognition of a different odor in their environment
Sensitivity to variations in tone of voice
Ability to interpret glances and facial expressions
Response to small signs of encouragement or validation
The “Pause to Check System”:
In highly sensitive children, the “pause to check system” refers to their tendency to assess and monitor their internal and external environment before reacting. This pause allows them to process stimuli deeply and consider their responses carefully, serving as a coping mechanism to manage overwhelming situations and regulate their emotions effectively.
Understanding the traits of highly sensitive children, as encapsulated by the acronym “DOES,” and recognizing the importance of the “pause to check system” can provide valuable insights for parents, caregivers, and educators. By acknowledging and validating these unique characteristics, we can create supportive environments that nurture the strengths and abilities of highly sensitive children, empowering them to thrive and flourish in their own unique way. If you are wondering if your child has the highly sensitivity trait please call us for a FREE consultation.
Reference:
Aron, Elaine N. (2002). The Highly Sensitive Child: Helping Our Children Thrive When the World Overwhelms Them. Broadway Books.
