Do you have a highly sensitive child? Maybe they experience emotions a little more deeply than most people do. Additionally, maybe they experience the world as “too loud,” “too bright,” and “too fast.” On the other hand, you might notice extra empathy and compassion in your child. Highly sensitive children can feel different from their peers because sensitivity comes with a wide array of gifts and challenges. One of the best ways to help your child navigate their sensitivity is through reading. Thankfully, there are plenty of books for highly sensitive children. We’ve listed some of our favorites below.
The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper
Let’s start with a classic: The Little Engine that Could. What does this book have to do with high sensitivity? On the surface, nothing. However, let’s look at the theme of this book. The Little Engine that Could is about a small train that faces a lot of challenges as she pulls a heavy load. Still, the Little Engine perseveres and believes in herself. Highly sensitive children face a lot of challenges, but confidence and perseverance can take them far. Therefore, Little Engine provides a wonderful example for these children.
Not Your Typical Dragon by Dan Bar-el
Your typical dragon breathes fire, but Crispin doesn’t breathe fire. He breathes bandages, whipped cream, teddy bears, and marshmallows. Crispin knows that he’s not your typical dragon, but soon he’ll learn that his differences are a good thing. Therefore, for sensitive children who feel different, Not Your Typical Dragon can provide a lighthearted reassurance that there’s nothing wrong in standing out.
Thank Goodness for Different by Leila Boukarim
Speaking of differences, Thank Goodness for Different is a book specifically written for highly sensitive children. This book follows Lilly, a sensitive child who doesn’t feel like she fits in. However, Lilly’s mother helps her realize why different doesn’t have to be a bad thing. Therefore, when it comes to books for highly sensitive children, this one hits home. Lots of sensitive children see themselves in Lilly.
The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf
Here’s another classic. Ferdinand the Bull is one of the best books for highly sensitive children. In this timeless story, we meet Ferdinand, a Spanish bull who would rather sit under his favorite tree and smell the flowers than fight with other bulls. This cozy story is perfect for unwinding at bedtime, and the message of acceptance is a balm to the sensitive child’s spirit.
All Too Much for Oliver by Leila Boukarim
Additionally, here’s another one of Leila Bourkarim’s books for highly sensitive children. In All Too Much for Oliver, we meet a boy who doesn’t like loud noises or big crowds. Oliver would rather play by himself than risk seeing a lot of people at the playground. However, in this book, he also learns how to navigate a friendship with a friend who does enjoy noisy places like playgrounds and birthday parties.
So Loud It Hurts by Elaheh Bos
So Loud It Hurts is a great book for children with noise sensitivity. In this book, we meet Gus, who is enjoying his birthday party. However, when the party’s noise gets too overwhelming, Gus needs to get back to some peace and quiet. Therefore, this book gives children examples of what they can do when their environment becomes too loud.
Books for Highly Sensitive Children
Looking for more books for highly sensitive children? Need more ideas for helping your sensitive child navigate a loud world? Keep returning to Legacy Academy’s news page. We regularly provide tips for childcare, reading, and sensory play.
Looking for a preschool that will honor your child’s sensitivity? Then check out Legacy Academy in Berkeley Lake. Our teachers celebrate differences and show children how to do the same. Contact us today to learn more.
