This is a post in a series of 31 Days of Minimalist Homeschooling. See the intro post with all the topics here.
Yesterday I introduced the idea of how a child’s personality type affects their learning. I shared some tips on homeschooling the fun-loving, active child.
Today I want to talk about another type, the sensitive child. My 11 year old daughter is this type. A few key words to describe the sensitive child:
Type 2 – sensitive, worrier, emotional, likes comfort, routines
A slow and steady pace is best for this child. I used to worry about Ilana’s math skills because it took her 2 years to learn her times tables, but slowness shouldn’t be confused with a lack of intelligence.
Sensitive kids are usually excellent students, they have the ability to sit still and read for long periods, and can be trusted to take care of their schoolwork routine without a lot of supervision.
They can have anxiety if pushed. Keep the pace relaxed and they’ll thrive.
Sensitive to labels and judgments of others and self (this type may feel that others think they’re stupid or have self-esteem issues)
My sensitive child is extremely interested in testing and tracking and knowing how she’s doing. She wants to grade papers and know her grade and it’s important for me to write it on her papers quickly after she gives them to me.
Needs positive feedback and verbal affirmation.
Comfort is important to sensitive types. They prefer literally to be surrounded by softness: comfortable clothing, etc. This child may do their schoolwork in bed instead of a desk.
Sensitive types can become unbalanced if their emotions are stifled. They need a safe place to express themselves so that they can feel centered and happy again.
Do you recognize any traits of the sensitive type in your child?
This is so haylei. I will try the homework in the bed thing. But she hates tests and actually doesn’t test well. It overwhelms her and she gets distressed. But the child loves to read. I’m so happy about that. Right now we are gobbling up the “free for free” kindle promo Kevin bought. She’s loving the Box Car Children series.
I don’t think any of my kids are this type, but their mother sure is! Looking at this list, I kept thinking “Yes! Yes! That would have really helped me!” (to this day, I still love to do everything in a soft, comfy chair or couch). Unfortunately, I went to public school and didn’t do as well as I could have (which is one of many reasons I’m homeschooling!). I just read your list for the fun-loving child and it perfectly describes my 6-year-old. Those ideas would be great for him and I plan on implementing them immediately!