Ask the Expert: Nurturing Emotional Intelligence From Early Childhood

Dear Sabrina, Thank you for writing in. It is normal for toddlers to scream and cry for no apparent reason. While they experience the same emotions as older children and adults, they don’t yet have the language skills to express them. Instead of saying, "I feel upset that my toy broke," a toddler might show their frustration through behaviors like throwing things, pushing, or even trying to bite. I would also encourage you to acknowledge your own frustration—parenting can be exhausting and challenging at times. Often, our children’s behaviors can trigger old wounds from our own childhoods, such as feelings of helplessness, lack of control, or insecurity when they cry or misbehave. It's important to stay calm when he's crying and comfort him with your presence. The more relaxed you are, the faster your child will be able to calm himself. All the best!