Your baby doesn’t miss a thing! They flinch at the slightest sound, their eyes squint every time you turn on a light, they are hugely responsive to new people, and they cling to you and cry a lot when they feel overwhelmed. Even the sound of a flushing toilet can wake your tiny tot up from a nap! You wonder: is it normal for babies to be this sensitive to stimulation, or is my baby just extra sensitive?

Some babies are simply born with a heightened sensitivity to certain stimuli, such as being faced with new situations and experiences. If you are sensing that your child is extra sensitive, you may wonder whether you need to protect your little one from what feels jarring to them, or whether to expose them to more of it, thus, making them more resilient and able to handle it as they get older.

We are happy to shed some light on this for you so you can discover what is best for your sensitive little baby.

What are the supposed benefits of exposing my child to what they are sensitive to?

It’s important that babies get used to new sounds, sights and interactions as it’s all part of understanding and growing into their world.

Pushing your child beyond what’s comfortable for them helps them build strength and resilience and become more able to manage challenges.

Allowing your baby to experience momentary and manageable discomfort means they will grow up more able to deal with situations that are difficult while staying in control of their emotions.

What are the supposed benefits of protecting my child from what they are sensitive to?

Protecting your child from certain stimuli helps your child to feel safe and at home in the world.

Because your baby is still so little and vulnerable, it’s important that they are sheltered from what makes them feel nervous, especially if your child is very sensitive, as this will build safety and trust between you.

By protecting your baby from stressful situations, they typically grow up with fewer behavioural problems and are more able to regulate their emotions.

How do I use this information to make a decision that’s right for my baby?

There is not a one size fits all approach. It’s about doing what is right for your baby and staying attuned to their needs.

Like so many aspects of the parenting experience, you need to find the sweet spot. Some babies will be naturally enthused by a new situation, while others will be stressed out and want to avoid it. The goal is to read your baby’s signals and figure out what they need.

If you find that your baby is very uncomfortable in a new situation, for example, they won’t stop crying while they are with all your friends, what they likely need is peace and quiet. Once you take your little one to a place away from people and noise, they should feel much happier.

Follow your instincts. People around you might not necessarily agree with your approach, but take care of your baby the way they need to be taken care of.

Your baby needs protection, but gauge what challenge they need protecting from and which challenge they can (and are able) to endure.

Is my baby extra sensitive?

Unii’s Baby Development Journey looks at whether your baby is exceptionally sensitive.