5 yr old: Extremely Emotional
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Hi Mamas- I need some advice. I have a five year old who has become extremely emotional. Not in the outburst tantrum kind of way, but when her feelings are hurt, if she gets hurt, if something is not perfect, she cries and cries. And it’s not the trying to get attention type of crying, I’m a mom of three girls and this is a first. She seems to feel ALL things to her core. Like..if she makes a mistake, she cries. If she has a fight with her sisters she cries, if she is worried about something she cries. Sometimes she just hides and cries. Has anyone experienced a highly emotional child like this? And any advice? My heart is breaking for her and I try to tell her that we can solve all problems but her emotional state is alarming. How do I help her through this?
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First, ugh, sweet angel and mama!!!! I’m not saying this is the entire solution but could potentially be a part of the puzzle… have you checked vitamin deficiencies? My kids need more iron when they are going through growth spurts which causes them to be emotional. Don’t supplement iron without consulting pediatrician first. But maybe a round of lab work is worth it?
Also, I assume she’s sleeping enough? My kids cannot emotionally regulate without sleep and they need 11 hours.Hopefully an OT or therapist might have some advice too.
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Would agree OT helped our highly sensitive and emotional daughter!!! I probably waited too long and wish I started sooner. They will also give helpful tips and tools on how to parent in those situations too.
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Reccomend The Highly Sensitive Child by Elaine N. Aron.
It really helped us with how to manage and react to a highly sensitive kid. There’s a quiz you can take to determine how sensitive your kid is too.
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Hi! I totally understand how you are feeling! I am a therapist and I also have a highly sensitive kiddo. I love all the recommendations people have given you! I was going to come on here to recommend OT for sure. There are several great places but my top two would be MLEE and KidVentures for OT. It’s a really great place to start and will help so much! They will also be able to guide you toward next steps if anything is needed outside of what they offer in OT. : ). Feel free to message me if you have any questions or anything. Happy help!
