They’re not “too sensitive.” They’re not “overreacting.” And they’re not doing it “for attention.”

Sometimes children are just overwhelmed. And because they don’t have the words to explain how they feel, they show us instead.

It might come out as tears over a broken pencil. A tantrum over a change in routine. Or total silence when something feels too much.

We say this often at Mind Marvels: all behaviour is communication. Children don’t misbehave to make our lives difficult – they’re letting us know something doesn’t feel right in their world.

Understanding sensitivity in children

Some children are naturally more sensitive than others – emotionally, physically, or socially. That doesn’t mean something is wrong with them. It just means they process the world more intensely.

Noise, bright lights, transitions, or overwhelming emotions can feel amplified. And without the skills to self-regulate yet, children respond the only way they know how -through their behaviour.

The problem is, adults don’t always recognise the difference between being sensitive and being difficult.

But when we reframe “too sensitive” as “still learning to cope,” everything shifts. We stop punishing behaviour and start supporting it.

Why empathy (not shame) is the answer

Let’s take an example: a child bursts into tears because they lost their spot in line.

It might seem minor to an adult. But to that child, it might represent a loss of control, a sense of unfairness, or a break from routine that feels overwhelming.

When we respond with “It’s not a big deal,” we risk shutting them down.

When we respond with “I can see you’re upset. Let’s take a moment together,” we’re saying: your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone in them.

And that’s where regulation starts – with calm connection.

How Mind Marvels helps children self-regulate

In our sessions, we help children understand what’s going on in their brains and bodies when they feel big emotions.

We teach them about the Meerkat, the Owl and the Elephant – our fun way of exploring the parts of the brain involved in survival, reasoning and memory. When children can name what they’re feeling and understand why, they’re more able to make sense of it.

Self-regulation doesn’t happen overnight – but it becomes possible when children are given tools and space to practise.

Helpful strategies for supporting sensitive or overwhelmed children

Whether you’re a parent, teacher or support staff, here are a few simple ways to respond with calm, connection and empathy:

1. Name the feeling

Try saying: “It looks like you’re feeling…” or “I wonder if you’re feeling…” rather than jumping straight to “You’re okay.” Naming emotions helps children feel understood – and gives them language to express it next time.

2. Practise calming techniques before they’re needed

We use tools like breathing spheres, mindful massage, and movement games in our sessions – not just during moments of stress, but as part of the routine. This helps children build regulation into their day, so it’s there when they need it most.

3. Offer connection before correction

Behaviour is more likely to change after a child feels safe and connected. If they’re overwhelmed, try sitting beside them and saying, “I’m here when you’re ready,” rather than demanding instant calm.

4. Use visual aids or movement to reset

Younger children in particular respond well to visual cues or gentle movement breaks. A few star jumps, a squeeze of a sensory toy, or simply stepping outside for a moment can help reset the nervous system.

Reframing what we think we know

Sensitivity isn’t weakness. It’s awareness. And children who feel deeply are often incredibly empathetic, creative and thoughtful – once they feel safe enough to let that part shine.

When adults model calm and co-regulation, we help sensitive children feel less “too much” – and more just right, exactly as they are.

Final thought?

The next time you hear someone say “They’re just too sensitive,” try gently reframing it:

“They’re doing their best with what they have. Let’s give them the tools to cope.”

Find out more how Mind Marvels can help in your school, nursery or community here.