A crying child can be challenging to deal with. When you're tired and busy, it may be easy to snap. Preschool children cry for a reason— even if it makes no sense to an adult. Tears are par for the course, but not every tantrum is irrational. Here's a guide to help you identify what's causing the tears and how to respond in an emotionally healthy way.

Why Do Children Cry?

Fear

Life can be scary when you're small. There's a lot children don't understand. The unfamiliar and being unsure of their safety can make small children cry. 

Tired or Hungry

Toddlers may not know how to express feelings of exhaustion or hunger. They haven't yet learned what an empty stomach and tiredness feel like or what to do about it. When hunger or fatigue hit, it can overwhelm them.

Frustration

Children of preschool age may find understanding the concept of “no” to be challenging. Tears of frustration are frequently seen in children who don’t yet know what “no” means.

Stress

Like adults, children are affected by stressful situations. Changes in routine, conflict, uncomfortable clothing, and trying something new for the first time may become too much. Unable to articulate their feelings, children may cry.

Attention

Children have limited communication skills. Because they don't know how to get attention constructively, they may resort to one of the tools they do possess—tears.

How to React to Tears in an Emotionally Healthy Way

When a child is crying, empathy is key. They want to be understood and for you to make them feel better. Sometimes, they want only to have you listen to them. 

Try crouching down to their level and telling them you understand why they're sad and asking what you can do to help. Often, reassurance is enough. It helps them process what's upset them and lets them know they're safe.

Other ways to respond include telling them you know they want space, telling them what they're feeling is OK, and sharing similar experiences you've gone through. Try not to distract them or ignore their upset. Learning how to understand and manage their feelings is a crucial developmental stage for preschoolers. If you remain calm and supportive, you can make this milestone a positive experience for them.

Tears and tantrums are all part of being a child, but they don't phase the experienced team at the Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center in Lexington, KY. For over 40 years, they've welcomed the children of Fayette County into their learning center with quality day care programs for children from 6 weeks to preschool age. They also host enriching before-and-after school programs and summer camps for children up to to 10 years of age. Call today to schedule a tour at (859) 299-9277, or visit their website to find out more about their commitment to excellence.