Why Do Kids Have Crying Spells?

Every parent knows that kids cry -- and they cry a lot. However, the reasons for all those tears aren't always apparent. Kids might cry if their cookie breaks. They might cry if they can't reach their favorite toy on a shelf. They might cry just because they don't like how close their brother is sitting to them. Though their crying spells may not always make sense to parents, kids often have a reason for their tears, and it's usually a way of communicating their physical and emotional needs.

  1. Physical Pain or Discomfort

    • Younger children often cry because they don't know how else to express themselves. Toddlers and preschoolers who have limited language ability don't always know how to say that their stomach is cramping or that they can't use the bathroom. As a result, they cry out of frustration and in pain. Even older children may cry because they just don't feel well and don't know how else to handle it. Cries of pain typically start with a high-pitched wail and are followed by loud crying, WebMD says. Even if your child can't tell you exactly what he's feeling, you can listen to the cry for a signal that he may be in pain or discomfort. Younger children may even cry when they are too hot or too cold or just don't like the way their blanket feels. They may also cry when they are hungry, thirsty or just plain tired. A dirty diaper, a new tooth, or a fever can all bring on crying spells.

    Emotional Needs

    • Kids are learning how to process many new emotions, and they may not know how to handle them. Frustration, disappointment, anxiety, confusion and fear can all cause children to feel overwhelmed and need to cry to express themselves, says Dr. Aletha Solter of the Aware Parenting Institute, with KidsHealth adding that toddlers cry because they are learning to be more independent while also finding that they can't yet do everything for themselves. They look to adults for guidance and for comfort. Crying expresses a need for assurance and connection. Parents can hold their children, talk to them in a soft voice, and listen to their feelings, if they are able to express them.

    Stress or Trauma

    • What adults experience as routine, some children can find traumatic. Solter notes that moving to a new home, experiencing a divorce or starting school can all be traumatic experiences for children. After such events, children can be prone to crying spells more frequently as they try to work through their feelings. Children may not even be aware they are crying for this reason, and it may not be obvious to adults. They may cry over completely unrelated issues. It is important to show empathy and to be patient while you help them through this time.

    Medical Conditions

    • When crying becomes persistent and there seems to be no other reason for it, there may be an underlying medical condition. Ear infections, urinary tract infections, and gastrointestinal issues can all cause crying spells, notes WebMD. More serious issues like encephalitis and meningitis can also cause crying. Falls or injuries from shaking or abuse can also cause physical damage that may not be visible but that can be causing serious problems. It is important to have your child evaluated by a medical professional for any medical conditions that may be causing the crying and to get treatment.

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