6 Tips for Keeping Calm and Parenting On

Because Losing Your Cool Never Actually Feels Cool!

Parenting is a wild ride—equal parts rewarding and exhausting. One moment, you’re basking in heartwarming hugs, and the next, you’re navigating a full-blown tantrum in the cereal aisle. While it’s tempting to lose your cool, we all know that yelling or stressing out rarely makes things better. So, how do you stay calm and keep parenting on, even in the most chaotic moments?

Here are six simple yet effective ways to maintain your patience, protect your sanity, and make parenting a little more enjoyable.

1. Take a Deep Breath—Seriously

When your little one is pushing every button, stop and take a deep breath. Science backs it up—deep breathing lowers cortisol levels (aka the stress hormone) and helps reset your nervous system. Try the 4-7-8 technique: inhale for four seconds, hold for seven, and exhale for eight.

2. Reframe the Chaos

Instead of thinking, Why is this happening to me? try asking, What is my child trying to communicate? Reframing frustrating moments can help you respond with patience rather than react with frustration.

3. Call a “Time-In” (for Yourself!)

Kids get time-outs, so why shouldn’t parents get a time-in? Step away for a moment, sip some water, pop a piece of Good Day Chocolate Calm (a chocolatey blend of L-theanine and chamomile), and reset. A small break can make all the difference.

4. Set the Emotional Tone

Your mood influences your child’s mood. If you respond with calm, they’ll eventually mirror that behavior. Create a peaceful environment with soft music, aromatherapy, or even a quick dance party to shift the energy.

5. Lean on Your Village

Parenting isn’t meant to be a solo mission. Whether it’s a friend, partner, or an online support group, having a go-to person to vent, laugh, or brainstorm solutions with can be a lifesaver.

6. Prioritize Your Own Well-Being

It’s easy to pour everything into your kids and forget about yourself. But a well-rested, well-fed, and mentally refreshed parent is a better parent. Don’t feel guilty for taking time for self-care—it’s essential!

Final Thoughts

Keeping your cool as a parent isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being mindful. The next time chaos strikes, take a breath, reset, and remember—you got this! And if you need a little extra support, let Good Day Chocolate Calm be your delicious, stress-busting sidekick.