My tween does not see friends after school, and says she does not want to. Should I push her to invite someone over on the weekend?
First, think about how long your tween has not wanted to talk or hang out with peers. Has this been the way your tween has felt for years, or is it a more recent issue? If the latter, think about what happened around that time in your tween's life: was she hurt by someone she liked or trusted? Talk with your tween and empathize with her painful feelings. Remember that empathy is the first and most important step in helping your tween. If you have had a similar experience as a child, share that with your tween. Finally think together about possible actions going forward. Let your tween decide what to try as long as it does not sound unreasonable to you.
If your child has been without friends for years, then she may have social anxiety, which often benefits from psychotherapy. Your tween may get anxious just thinking about calling someone on the phone. Or your tween could be showing signs of mild autism. Children on the autism spectrum often do not know how to make friends and do not realize how their behaviors are seen by others. For example, your tween may have an interest in a video game or movie, and talk about it a lot, without thinking about whether her peers are listening. In this case, talk with your school's social worker, or talk with your family doctor about how to help your tween. Sometimes there is a school activity or club that your child could join and meet peers with a similar interest. Some schools have a social skills group that your tween could join. You do not want to force a child to join an activity if they show little interest, though. Sometimes a mental health practitioner, such as a psychologist, in your community can help you think through what might help.