Worried about emotions

[AmieLam]

Hi!
my 2.5 year old is really emotional when another child starts crying. He plays absolutely fine with children until they whinge or cry, then he acts like he is in absolute fear and will cling to me. Is this normal?! What is it? What can I do to help him understand it's not his emotions?! Thank you!

I'd play it as cool and relaxed as possible. If you make much fuss or overly comfort him, it will reinforce the idea in his head that he is right to be frightened. Just tell him everything is okay and don't worry.

Ah ok, see I do pick him up and comfort him as just want him to know it's ok. Do you think I try and not? He will cry and ask to be 'up' with me?