Do you ask your child how they are?
Do you stick around to hear the answer and truly listen to what they say?
What do you do if they give a short, non committal reply or refuse to answer?
It can be hard to get responses out of children especially as they get older and just grunt as a reply however it is crucial to keep an eye on your children's mental well-being and mental health.
Ask them "How are you feeling?", "Everything going well?", "How are things in your world?"
If they don't give a wordy response, watch their body language, their facial expressions... do they look happy, sad, stressed, anxious, angry, upset?
Let them know you're there for them no matter what. Let them know, by reacting nicely, that no matter what they say you won't judge.
Try not to let them spend too much time alone wallowing in their own angst, allowing their brooding thoughts to overwhelm and consume them.
Be there for them. Be open to conversation and interaction. Try to find something they might like to do together with you, or the family.
Don't let loners dwell all alone in their world. Even loners (those who like and prefer their own company) can get lonely and feeling empty and friendless from time to time. Make sure they're not left to sink into their own dark thoughts.
Make sure your children know they are loved, valued, important, and a cherish part of your life.
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