There is no rule about protecting the dribble.  I assume this is younger kids since you said they were crying.  Younger kids seem to do this while they are dribbling but normally figure it out as they get older. 

The dribbler is not allowed to push off but I guess the answer might be who created the contact? 
If you have video and would like to send to bkelleyok@gmail.com it might be easier to see?