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The current study examines whether mothers’ perception of having a difficult child moderates the association between their own childhood maltreatment and their sensitivity toward their child. Ninety-four mothers of children (0–6 years old) reported for child maltreatment or at high risk of maltreatment completed self-report measures on their childhood maltreatment experiences and their perception of having a difficult child. Maternal sensitivity was assessed during a home visit. Mothers’ perception of having a more difficult child moderated the association between the severity of maltreatment experiences (all types included) and maternal sensitivity, and between history of emotional abuse and maternal sensitivity. A significant negative direct link was also found between a history of physical abuse and maternal sensitivity, regardless of whether they perceived their child as difficult or not. Overall, these results suggest that parent-child interventions for parents with a history of childhood trauma should consider the mother’s perception of the child to promote sensitive parenting behaviors and support their commitment to adopting a positive and benevolent role toward their child.