7 year old suddenly doesn't want to say I love you?

[Mummaneedswine]

Has anyone experienced their child all of a sudden unable (or unwilling) to express emotions and love for you or family?

My usually super affectionate 7 year old girl suddenly “doesn’t know” if she loves me or any of our family for that matter. She has also become indecisive about any question posed to her but the love thing is really bothering me. Nothings happened to warrant it. I’ve had lots of conversations about it to check nothing has happened at home or in school. She really happy in general but just will not say I love you. At first I believed it was for attention but I’m not sure. I have tried different strategies over the last few weeks by ignoring it altogether, offering gentle encouragement and telling her how it makes me feel (maybe that was wrong but I’ve always tried to show her our actions impact others). I would love some kind advice. We have always been so close and it’s so upsetting that she “doesn’t know” if she loves us 🥲

could it be that she's shy?

I also have a 7 year old girl. Don't put pressure on her. You don't need to hear her to say 'I love you' to know that she loves you. Engage in activities that you both enjoy and that foster connection, like reading, playing games, or simply spending quality time together. These moments can help rebuild emotional closeness without words.

I would continue to express your love and affection in natural ways, without expecting her to reciprocate immediately. Gently explain that it's okay not to always have clear answers about feelings.

It sounds as though you are trying to force the issue (around getting her to speak or express her love).
And, telling her how it makes you feel is really unfair and manipulative, as a child is not responsible for any adult's feelings.