Question

How could you describe this a sensitive child to a parent that feels their child is just shy (a parent that overlooks their child's sensitive behavior)? Without telling the parent they are wrong about their child's behavior?

Answer 1

High sensitivity is a biological trait, not a fault. But depends at what level the child is sensitive and at what age the child is at present.

Highly sensitive does not mean overly sensitive. I know you want them to be happy, but trying to stop the parents from feeling bad is only a temporary solution. Where are all those feelings supposed to go?

If a problem is unidentified then there is no way it will be ever fixed. To fix a problem, we need to know what the problem is exactly or where the problem is. If you feel like something needs to be fixed, Help them embrace their “thin skin” and recognise that there’s nothing wrong with having it.

If it is one at the early stage, we don't need therapy, or psychiatry, or that we’re bipolar, or have ADD, or need medication, or more medication. We cannot rely on experts totally in an hour consultation, help them see what you see because I understand you would be better person to advice the parent out of your observation.

I think you should speak to the parent about the child's behaviour. I understand it would be difficult for you to confront and difficult to accept for the parent as well but also explain Parents and other significant adults in their life need to do all they can to prevent this unwarranted sense of shame from taking root in future.