Self-assessment

Is My Child Highly Sensitive?

Twelve questions adapted from the temperament research literature.

  1. Does your child startle easily?
  2. Does your child notice subtle changes in your mood?
  3. Does your child complain about clothing tags, sock seams, or scratchy fabric?
  4. Does your child get overwhelmed in noisy environments (gyms, cafeterias, malls)?
  5. Does your child notice small details others miss?
  6. Does your child react strongly to bright lights or strong smells?
  7. Does your child cry easily over things others would brush off?
  8. Does your child take a long time to warm up to new people?
  9. Does your child ask deep questions for their age?
  10. Does your child get rattled by quick changes in plan?
  11. Does your child feel things very intensely (joy and sadness both)?
  12. Does your child need extra recovery time after exciting events?