12/08/2022
Mmmmm fake crying 🙃 It can be one of our least favorite things as parents. It’s loud, it’s whiney, & it usually levels up riiiiight around the time we’re cooking dinner with a baby on our hip.
Fake crying is NOT manipulation - it’s communicating a need. Your toddler’s brain is still developing - it doesn't have the language or impulse control to communicate their actual needs.
So how do we handle fake crying? We're going to approach it the same way we deal with "normal" or "valid" crying. We want to show our kids that we hear them, their words are valid, and we’re here for them. Trust me, in 15 years, you’ll want your child to feel secure in coming to you about ANYTHING, even if it seems kind of “silly” or “dramatic.”
✨STEP 1: HEAR THEM + Repeat their need/want✨
“You want another episode of Paw Patrol. I get it, that’s hard.”
State the underlying need/want in the tone you wish to hear. Bring your voice down, model that calm tone. Avoid laughing, dismissing, or getting angry at the fake crying.
✨STEP 2: HOLD THE BOUNDARY✨
“And, we’re all done with Paw Patrol. It’s ok to be sad/mad. I’m right here with you.”
Holding boundaries consistently is key in preventing future fake crying. If your toddler starts crying for more TV, you’re exhausted and go, “Fine! One more episode!” guess what happens? Next time it's time to turn the iPad off, or leave the park, or get the candy at the store, your toddler just learned that if they cry, they’ll get exactly what they want.
This is NOT manipulation. This is healthy brain development! Your toddler is exploring everything in their new world, constantly trying to see cause and effect (if I jump in a puddle, what happens? If I cry, what happens?) This is their JOB. It’s our job as parents to hold the loving boundary.
Now, if you’re seeing an uptick in fake crying, there might be a bigger underlying need like a new baby in the house, a big change such as moving or new school, etc. Check out our highlight called 10 Min Miracle for a game changing strategy. 🙌
✨Struggling with tantrums, power struggles + unwanted behavior? Our course Winning the Toddler Stage is here to help! For parents of kids ages 1-6. Link in bio!✨