Why Classroom Seating is Important for A Highly Sensitive Child

The start of a new school year generally means new classroom seating and for a highly sensitive child (and their parents!) it can be an additional source of stress. For most children it matters where they sit in school but for a highly sensitive child in particular classroom seating can make or break that first day back at school. It also sets the tone for the new school year. That first morning as a child finds his or her new place in the classroom is a potential minefield – the first stone laid as to how comfortable your child feels in their new classroom.

Why Classroom Seating Matters so Much

Sit next to a chatterbox and that introvert HSC will have trouble completing school work. Concentration will be difficult for a child that needs quiet.

Sit next to the pathways through the class and the movement will distract a HSC.

If a child with a fear of failing can’t easily make contact with the teacher because they are at the back of the classroom, then they can’t quickly gain that reassurance they badly need.

Sit next to a space dedicated for free play, computer work or group activities and the focus is easily taken away from the task in hand.

Sit in the centre of the class and activity on all sides can feel overwhelming.

If a HSC sits under a bright light a HSC will feel uncomfortable, but may not be able to pinpoint why.

Sit near the teacher’s desk and a HSC is party to every discussion that happens between the teacher and her students. Not just distracting but potentially emotionally overwhelming too.

Sit at the back of the classroom and a HSC has a view of the entire class and therefore every movement, interaction and activity therein. Their bucket fills quickly, leaving no space for school work.

Need I go on?

Classroom seating matters.

Give the Teacher a Break!

As a parent you also need to have understanding for the teacher, who is often also unfamiliar with a group of new children at the start of a school year. A teacher is finding their way through this potential minefield too – experimenting with seating arrangements and groups of children that work well together.  Remember that the goal of the teacher is the same as yours – that your child thrives in school.

Every child is different. Every child blossoms in different conditions and if the place in the classroom allocated to your HSC makes them feel uncomfortable try and get to the bottom of why. Then you can talk to the teacher together to improve the situation. HSCs often do not want to ‘make a fuss’ so you may need to advocate for them.

Best Place in a Classroom for a Highly Sensitive Child?

So where should a HSC sit in a classroom? There isn’t one straight forward one-fits-all answer to that, but it is clear that where a HSC sits in a classroom should be well considered because the consequences can be huge. If your HSC is struggling in school then seating arrangements is certainly one of the things you should look at.

Over to You

Has the seating arrangements in a classroom effected your HSC? Where’s the best position in the classroom for your HSC? Has the teacher been accommodating or are you having the same discussions over and over? Join the HSK community to talk to other parents of HSCs.