I used to think my kid crying upon waking was just a bad habit or fussiness. But after reading up on it, I learned that for infants and toddlers, waking up crying is their way of checking: is my caregiver still here? Am I safe?
In primitive times, a child waking up alone and quiet could be deadly. Crying immediately upon waking ensured the caregiver would come. It's a survival reflex hardwired into their little brains.
Understanding this completely changed how I respond. Instead of feeling annoyed, I now understand that his crying isn't manipulation β it's his ancient biology calling out for reassurance.
So now I just go to him calmly, pick him up, hold him close, and let him know I'm here. He settles down much faster than when I used to get frustrated.
It's a small mindset shift that made a big difference in our mornings.