Sensitivity and the importance of 'down time'

[wurly71]

Hello. I wondered if anyone else has experience of raising a 'highly sensitive' child. I'm using the term in its recognised psychological sense - having come to the conclusion that my 8-year-old son is on this spectrum.
In particular, I'm not sure how much to push him to do extra-curricular activities. He's very reluctant to join any clubs or do anything after school. My instinct is to let him make his own choices and allow him down-time and relaxation which he seems to find at home. But also concerned that he's not experiencing different activities. There's such a pressure on parents these days to expose your children to all sorts of life-enhancing experiences - I'm worried I'm letting him down. Anyone else have any experience of this dilemma?

My DD is 10 and has also been suspected of being on the spectrum. VEry sensitive since being tiny. Her sense of touch and her hearing are the main factors for her.

She likes to spend a lot of time alone but does have friends and will only pursue her one hobby...ballroom dancing. I used to push her and couldn't understand why she didn't want to swim or go to the park....she just doesnt.

So I spend my time encouraging her to develop her academic strengths...she's a talented writer and to learn about ecommerce. Which fascinates her.