Imagine that number 5 tastes like cherries and the sound of the trumpet is bright yellow. For most of us, this is just a fantasy, but for people with synesthesia, it's an everyday reality.
Synesthesia is an amazing phenomenon where stimulation of one sensory organ automatically and involuntarily causes a sensation in another. In this article, we will discuss synesthesia in more detail: how it affects children, what advantages and disadvantages it may have, and how parents can help their child discover the potential of this unique gift and learn how to manage it.
By the way, if your kids are crazy about IT, we at Progkids will teach them how to make good use of their computer screen time!
What is synesthesia
Synesthesia (from Greek syn — together, aisthesis — sensation) is a neurological phenomenon in which sensations from one sensory system spontaneously cause experiences in another. This means that in synesthetes, for example, letters or numbers can have a specific color, sounds can evoke visual images, and words can taste. There are many different types of synesthesia, and it appears differently for each person.
It is important to note that synesthesia is neither a disease nor a disorder. This is a congenital feature that occurs in about 4% of the population. Synesthetic sensations are not hallucinations or imaginations. These are real, subjective experiences that synesthetes describe as automatic, involuntary, and sequential.
Types of synesthesia
There are many different types of synesthesia. Among the most common are:
Graphemo-color synesthesia
When letters or numbers evoke certain color sensations.
Sound color synesthesia
When sounds evoke visual images (they evoke a sense of color, shape, texture).
Lexical and gustatory synesthesia
When words evoke taste.
Numero-spatial synesthesia
When numbers are arranged in a certain order in space.
Tactile emotional synesthesia
When touching evokes certain emotions.
How does synesthesia occur in children
Synesthesia is often difficult to diagnose at an early age, as children usually don't realize that their feelings are different from other people's perceptions. Here are some signs that may indicate that your child has synesthesia:
Unusual associations
The child says that certain letters or numbers have “color”, “taste” and “texture”.
Interest in certain colors, sounds, or shapes
The child shows an increased interest in certain colors, sounds, or shapes that he associates with other sensations.
It is difficult to describe the characteristics of perception
It is difficult for a child to explain his feelings to other people, as they do not comply with generally accepted norms.
Good memory
Synesthetes often have a good memory, especially with regard to information related to their synesthetic feelings.
Well-developed imagination
Synesthetes are usually imaginative and creative.
Benefits of synesthesia
Synesthesia has the following benefits:
Improved memory
Synesthetic associations help us remember information.
Advanced imagination and creativity
Synesthesia can inspire creativity and help you see the world from a different angle.
A unique view of the world
Synesthetes perceive the world more vividly and intensely than ordinary people.
Hypersensitivity
Synesthetes are often hypersensitive to art, music, and other forms of beauty.
Weaknesses
Sensory overload
Too many stimuli often cause synesthetes to experience sensory overload and discomfort.
Learning difficulties
Synesthetic feelings are contrary to generally accepted norms, which can make it difficult to learn to read, write, and math.
Social isolation
If a child finds it difficult to explain their feelings to others, this can lead to social isolation.
How to raise a child with synesthesia
If you suspect your child has synesthesia, it's important to:
Consult a specialist
A neurologist or psychologist specializing in synesthesia will be able to confirm the diagnosis and provide advice on how to develop and manage this gift.
Accept and support the child
Let your child know that synesthesia is not a flaw but a unique feature to be proud of.
Learn more about synesthesia
The more you know about synesthesia, the better you'll be able to understand your child and help them cope.
Help your child explore their synesthetic feelings
Encourage him to describe his feelings, draw them, compose music or poetry.
Use synesthesia in training
If your child has graphemo-color synesthesia, use colored cards to teach reading and writing.
Create a sensory-friendly environment
Avoid overloading your child with sensory stimuli, especially in stressful situations.
Find a synesthete community
Talking to other synesthetes will help your child feel part of the group and get support.
Encourage creativity
Synesthesia can be a powerful source of inspiration for creativity. Support your child in their creative endeavors.
Teach your child to control their feelings
Teach him relaxation and self-regulation techniques that will help him cope with sensory overload.
Don't try to “cure” synesthesia
Synesthesia is not a disease but a unique feature that can bring a lot of joy and benefits.
Does your child want to develop in the IT field? Write it down to free trial lesson to Progkids online school! We know more and more about computers!
