In this episode of MomDoc Talk, Kristen discusses why children cry at every stage, from infancy to the teen years. She explains that crying is a natural way for kids to communicate unmet needs—not manipulation. Kristen offers practical advice on responding with empathy, calmness, and healthy boundaries, and highlights when crying may signal deeper mental health concerns. She encourages parents to listen, validate emotions, and seek help if needed, reinforcing that tears are a normal part of emotional development and a key to building trust and connection with children.
What you’ll learn:
- The significance of crying as a form of communication in children.
- Developmental reasons for crying from infancy to teenage years.
- The role of parents in responding to crying with empathy and calmness.
- Understanding crying as a signal of unmet needs rather than manipulation.
- Strategies for soothing infants and addressing excessive crying.
- Emotional challenges faced by toddlers and preschoolers, including frustration and social interactions.
- The impact of school-related stress and family dynamics on crying in school-age children.
- The importance of validating emotions and encouraging healthy coping mechanisms.
- Recognizing signs of potential mental health concerns related to excessive crying.
- The role of parents in fostering emotional growth and connection through understanding children's tears.
Podcast Disclaimer
The information presented in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitution for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider for medical concerns. All of the opinions are of Dr. Kristen Cook and do not reflect the opinions of her employer nor the hospitals she is affiliated with. The authors and publishers of this podcast do not assume any responsibility for errors, omissions, or consequences of using the information provided.
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