Children who feel lonely might not know how to express their feelings to their parents. They may need help, but not know how to ask for it.
There are, however, some things that parents can do to support them and encourage them to open up about how they are feeling.
In doing this, they can also help kids build connections with peers and, in turn, feel less lonely.
Here are some ways parents can help:
Open up the conversation.
Kids who are feeling lonely may struggle with where to start or how to say so.
Sometimes sharing your own experiences can get them talking about theirs.
Start simple.
You could try saying something like, “Sometimes I might feel lonely if I haven’t seen my friend for a while.”
Give kids the space to talk.
It’s important to stay judgment-free.
Sometimes it is tempting to give advice and problem solve, but listening patiently at first can help.
Let your child see that it is safe for them to express themselves.
Validate, and show empathy, even if you might feel like it isn’t a big deal.
Understand that sometimes, when kids don’t socialize a lot, they may be anxious to do so
Make a plan with them together.
Ask them what they might need to do to feel better and less lonely, and see what they come up with first.
You could then encourage your child to ask a classmate to hang out.
Sometimes roleplaying social situations helps kids practice.
Help your child create concrete, helpful steps.
Talk through ways to resolve conflict with peers, using hypotheticals.
Find after school activities that they would enjoy and can join.
If your child has expressed feeling lonely, and struggles to socialize with peers, but you think they may need more assistance than a family discussion, don’t hesitate to reach out for a therapist today. Amel Counseling & Consulting has therapists who work with kids and teens that struggle with social anxiety, depression, and other obstacles that could be the reason why your child is feeling lonely and struggling to thrive socially. Schedule your free, 15-minute phone consultation today and see if we can provide your child and family with the support you need.