EMpowered Podcast Take Over Series: Supporting Highly Sensitive Children in the Classroom with Jacquie Ward

On the EMpowered Podcast Takeover Series, psychologist Jacquie Ward joins us to talk about something every teacher needs to know. How to support highly sensitive children in the classroom.

Some children feel things more deeply, notice the smallest details, and get overwhelmed more easily.

These students aren’t being “too sensitive” or “overdramatic”. They’re wired this way. Up to 20% of kids are highly sensitive, and when we understand them, we can support them in ways that actually work.

Jacquie Ward is a Psychologist who works with Children, Adolescents & their Families.

It was a deep love of learning, combined with a fascination for developmental psychology and attachment theory that led Jacquie to pursue a career change after the birth of her first child.

She returned to University and almost 10 years, another two babies, and approximately 5,000 textbooks later, found herself immersed in her dream job. For Jacquie, working with children, teens and their families as they navigate challenges with mental health and wellbeing, is the ultimate privilege.

In this episode, Jacquie explains:

• What high sensitivity really is (and what it’s not)
• How to recognise highly sensitive children in your classroom
• Why they get overwhelmed and struggle with change or noise
• The power of connection, safety, and predictable routines
• Simple ways to help them self-regulate and build confidence

When you support highly sensitive children the right way, they feel safer, happier, and more able to learn. And let’s be honest, it makes your job easier too.

Connect with Jacqui Ward

• [Course] Helping your highly sensitive child to thrive

If this episode resonates, check out Jacquie’s online course “Helping Your Highly Sensitive Child to Thrive” at www.jacquieward.com.au.

Connect with Em

• Website: emmagentle.com.au
• Instagram: @em_gentle
• LinkedIn