Social Energy Scale

Feeling Open

This level may reflect a child who feels socially steady, comfortable, and ready to connect. Their body has enough emotional and sensory capacity to chat, join in, or be around others.

Supportive response:
Stay warm and attuned. You might say, “Your social energy feels open — thank you for showing me.” Offer gentle interaction, predictable steps, and opportunities for connection without increasing demands or pace.

Partly Available

This may signal that the child is open to some interaction, but with limits. They may want connection in small doses, or need a little more time to warm up.

Supportive response:
Keep things light and flexible. You might say, “You’re partly available — we can take things slowly.” Offer low‑pressure interaction, options rather than expectations, and permission to pause whenever needed.

Needing Quiet

This level may reflect a need for reduced social input. The child may feel a little overloaded, sensitive, or simply in need of a quieter moment to settle their energy.

Supportive response:
Protect their quiet. You might say, “You need some quiet — that’s okay.” Offer a calm space, fewer questions, and gentle presence without requiring conversation or engagement.

Seeking Privacy

This may signal that the child needs distance, privacy, or time alone to regulate. They may be withdrawing to protect their emotional or sensory capacity.

Supportive response:
Honour their boundaries. You might say, “You’re seeking privacy — I’ll give you space and stay nearby if you need me.” Reduce social expectations, allow solitude, and ensure they feel safe without being observed or pressured.

Fully Resting

This level reflects a state where the child’s social energy is fully depleted. They may be quiet, still, non‑responsive, or unable to engage. This is not avoidance — it is the body’s way of recovering.

Supportive response:
Provide rest without expectation. You might say, “Your social energy needs full rest — I’m here and you’re safe.” Remove all social demands, keep the environment calm, and allow them to return at their own pace.