Highly sensitive children are those who have a particularly reactive nervous system, which makes them more sensitive to external stimuli, such as bright lights, loud noises, intense smells and emotional changes in their environment. Approximately 15-20% of the child population is considered highly sensitive, which means that it is a relatively common characteristic in childhood.
Common problems in childhood school for highly sensitive children
The sensitivity of these children can manifest itself in different ways in the school environment, which can lead to various emotional and adjustment problems. Below are some of the most common difficulties that these children may face at school:
Overstimulation in crowded spaces
One of the most recurring problems for highly sensitive children in school is overstimulation in crowded environments, such as the playground, school cafeteria, or even in the classroom when there is a lot of noise and activity. These children are especially sensitive to sensory stimuli, so the presence of multiple sources of stimulation can be overwhelming and trigger stress or anxiety responses in the child.
Difficulties concentrating
Because of their high sensitivity, highly sensitive children may have difficulty staying focused on schoolwork when they are in a noisy or chaotic environment. Overarousal caused by external stimuli can interfere with your ability to process information efficiently and to maintain attention on a task for prolonged periods of time.
Intense emotional reactions
The Highly sensitive children often experience emotions more intensely than other children, which means they may overreact to stressful or conflictive situations in the school environment. These intense emotional responses can make it difficult to resolve conflicts, effective communication with peers, or emotional self-regulation in the school environment.
Perception of criticism or rejection
The sensitivity of these children It can make them perceive criticism, negative comments or rejection from their peers, teachers or authority figures at school more intensely. This exaggerated perception of negative evaluations can affect their self-esteem and self-concept, generating feelings of insecurity or depression that hinder their emotional and social development in the school environment.
Difficulties in social interaction
The high sensitivity of these children can also influence their social skills and their ability to relate to their peers. Because of their tendency to process information deeply and react more emotionally, they may experience difficulties interpreting social cues, establishing friendships, or participating in group activities fluidly.
Strategies to support highly sensitive children at school
Despite the challenges that highly sensitive children may face in the school environment, there are strategies and resources that can help mitigate these problems and support their emotional well-being and their academic development. Below are some recommendations to support these children at school:
Create a calm and orderly environment
It is important to provide highly sensitive children with quiet and orderly spaces where they can feel safe and comfortable. Establishing calm corners in the classroom, reducing environmental noise and maintaining a clear visual organization can help reduce overstimulation and facilitate the concentration and emotional well-being of these children.
Provide support for emotional self-regulation
Teaching highly sensitive children emotional self-regulation strategies, such as deep breathing, visualization or the use of relaxation techniques, can be essential in helping them manage their emotions effectively and reduce the intensity of their feelings. reactions to stressful situations at school.
Promote empathy and understanding among classmates
Create an inclusive and empathetic environment in the classroom, where understanding and acceptance of Emotional diversity can favor the integration of highly sensitive children into the group and improve their emotional well-being. Encouraging activities that encourage empathy and cooperation among peers can help reduce the feeling of isolation and rejection that these children may experience.
Establish predictable routines and schedules
Predictability and structure are especially important for highly sensitive children, providing security and emotional stability in an environment that can be overwhelming for them. Establishing clear routines, predictable schedules, and providing advance information about changes in school dynamics can help reduce anxiety and improve these children's adjustment at school.
Provide individualized and personalized support
Every highly sensitive child is unique, so it is essential to offer individualized and personalized support that is tailored to their specific emotional and academic needs. Communicating regularly with the child, his parents and other professionals involved in his education can help identify areas of difficulty and implement effective strategies to promote his comprehensive development at school.
In conclusion, children Highly sensitive children may face various problems in the school environment due to their emotional and sensory sensitivity. However, with the right support from educators, parents, and mental health professionals, it is possible to help these children overcome these challenges and develop their full potential academically and socially.