8 Simple Stress-Busters for Frazzled Parents and Kids

Whether it is the constant daily demands caring for several young children, or a particularly stressful time of the year, I find my self on the verge of melting down more often than I wish to admit. My kids also struggle with keeping their stress and emotions under control. However, the temptation for us to lose our cool at home can often be overcome through one or two of these tricks.

1. Start a tickle fest.

Nothing lifts my spirits like the infectious laughter of my kids, and they usually giggle delightedly when I tickle them. It reminds me that I really do have the best job in the world.

2. Stage a dance party.

Even a toddler can enjoy bopping to a musical beat with Mom or Dad. Whether the savage beast is me or my kid, music soothes or at least directs our energies in a more positive direction.

3. Sing in the car (or wherever you happen to be).

Stress melts away when we put our vocal chords to productive use. And so much the better if my kids join in the songs.

4. Get outside and go.

Before a meal is often the hardest time for me and my kids. Sometimes we just need to get outside and take a break by running wild in the grass.

5. Battle it out with a sock or paper fight.

When stress or boredom afflict us, we can always find orphan socks to roll up and hurl at one another for a fun change of pace. When papers on the floor are driving me crazy, I can crumple them into balls to launch an all-out attack.

6. Hold a "treasure" hunt.

Sometimes these hunts are born out of necessity, when I'm stressed about not being able to find my keys or another item I need. So I enlist my kids and offer a reward. Even if I haven't lost anything important, I might ask them to find stray items (socks, coins, etc.) and award them prizes for their completing their search. Sometimes their reward is to keep the "treasures" they find.

7. Grab a snack and go out for a quick mini-picnic.

If it is winter, raining, or you are still in your pajamas, we might go to the garage or car to dine. If the weather is fair, my kids and Ihead to the backyard or a nearby park. Anywhere that is different can help soothe raw nerves.

8. End the day with thankfulness.

After giving examples of things I am thankful for, I let my kids share their ideas, serious or silly. One of my daughters often says she is "thankful for her pet toad in Canada."

When patience wears thin and tempers start to flare, often all that is needed is a change of pace and attitude. If I stop for a minute to get out of the downward spiral, our moods can change quickly from despair and frustration to delight. I don't have to be controlled by difficult circumstances or the complaints and outbursts of my children. All it usually takes is a minute to change the direction of our activities. After we do something playful, the tone of our interaction improves and we can return to enjoying our time together. I want to make sure we don't focus too much on what troubles or frustrates us. We can make lots of fun memories instead, mindful that these years are too precious to waste.