How to help a 5yr old not to cry so easily?

[Sillyreceptionmum]

Ok, so we went to Parents' evening at school this week. Everything is fine, DS doing very well and the teacher is really pleased (he's in Reception).

But his teacher did say that it is beginning to be noticeable that DS cries very easily, particularly at playtime. It seems to be when he's tagged, or 'out', or if the others don't want to play the same game as him and his default response is to cry. He works himself into a bit of a state and then 5 mins later he's back playing and it's forgotten.

We do notice at home that he's quite sensitive and emotional but we thought it was getting better. He is a bit of a perfectionist, likes to get things right and also likes to know what's going to happen next. When things don't go according to the plan that he's mapped out in his head he cries.

I just don't want him to be seen as a cry-baby at school and he seems so little to be told to 'man up'. We do talk about feelings and emotions but I don't want to make it a bigger issue.

Has anyone ever dealt with something similar and could share their strategies? I feel he needs something that helps him to cope with his feelings of frustration or being cross with resorting to tears.

[chihiro]

This is very similar to my 4 year old in reception, and haven't really decided what, if anything to do about it. May be worth having a look in the library for 'Sensitive Child' type parenting books - I think there are a few out there.

I also take solace from the fact my nephew was the same and is now a very confident 10 year old. It may be that with patience they just grow out of it.