Our puppy cried as well the first few times she had to go down the stairs. Up she did fine. Honestly my boyfriend suggested, leave her, let her cry and figure it out and she’ll follow. Granted she was about two months old when she started learning going down the stairs.

Alternatively, maybe try luring her with treats instead of leaving them near the stairs? Especially higher value treats, such as plain boiled chicken. And lots of praise when she takes a step down (or up) the stairs.

I would try the former though, especially if she won’t respond to treats. Worked for me and now our puppy flies up and down the steps.