Loneliness wears costumes in children – Child Loneliness Thought

Loneliness wears costumes in children: ‘I’m bored,’ ‘I don’t care,’ ‘I’d rather be alone.’ It’s not disinterest; it’s a shield. Peel gently with presence, not pry bars. When they feel seen, the costume unzips itself.

Try P.E.E.L.: Pause before fixing, Echo what you see, Explain one choice (“I’ll sit with you”), Light invitation (“Want to draw while I read?”). Small companionship first, social plans later.