Congratulations on being part of the growing number of parents raising sensitive boy! It’s an incredible feeling to watch a little human develop under your care, and you have a special bond with your son that is unlike any other. It’s important to recognize that your son’s sensitive nature has its benefits. Instead of trying to change who he is, embrace those sensitivities and work with them. Recognize when he needs a break or some extra understanding. Be patient and understanding when he’s feeling extra emotional or overwhelmed. He may not understand why he feels the way he does or how to handle those difficult emotions, so your sensitivity and empathy can make all the difference. Try these tips on how to help your sensitive son develop good habits that will help him in adulthood.  

1. Encourage Positive Self-Esteem

It’s important to help your sensitive son develop a strong sense of self-worth, so strive to build up his self-esteem in both verbal and nonverbal ways. Offer frequent praise when he succeeds and encourage him to take pride in his accomplishments.  

2. Offer Support

Sensitive boys can be overwhelmed easily and may need help managing their emotions. When he is struggling, offer a supportive ear and reassuring words, and gently help him find ways to calm himself down.  

3. Discuss Feelings

Encourage him to talk about and express his emotions — positive and negative. Modeling healthy ways of dealing with emotions helps him learn to address his own in a constructive manner.  

4. Honor Individuality

Respect your son’s unique traits and individual sense of style. When you demonstrate that differences are celebrated, it gives him permission to embrace his own personality and gifts. 

 5. Model Confidence

Kids emulate their parents’ behavior, so strive to cultivate a confident attitude of their own. Demonstrate assertive communication and assertiveness in other situations, guiding your sensitive boy to follow your example.

6. Set Limits

Although sensitive boys may be more emotionally delicate than other children, they still must learn to follow rules and abide by expectations. Stay firm and consistent in your rules and the consequences of breaking them.  

7. Extol Kindness

Model kindness to others — both people and animals. Demonstrate empathy with words and actions, and reinforce generous behavior in all situations.  

8. Offer Extra Protection

A sensitive boy may feel vulnerable at times, so provide him with an extra dose of protection. Let him know that he can always count on you to keep him safe and provide a supportive shoulder if he needs it. 

It’s still important to give your son the tools to manage those emotions.  Encourage healthy expression of emotions in ways that are appropriate, such as talking, drawing, or writing. Be open to discussing his feelings in whatever way works best for him. Remember to set reasonable expectations for him. All children need boundaries, and setting firm but reasonable boundaries will help him understand what is expected of him.  Give him the safety and comfort of knowing what to expect. You can help him grow into a secure young man who knows his worth and is able to use his sensitivity for good in the world.