6 Ways to Calm Down Your Wild and Crazy Kiddos

You may have relied on your glider more in his little baby days, but the gentle, back-and-forth motion will lull your hyped-up kiddo into a more restful state (fair warning, it may have the same effect on mom).

I took my 18-month-old to a toddler yoga class the other day and found the sweetest part to be at the end of the session, when the instructor went around the room giving the kids foot rubs. She used a strawberry-scented lotion, which seemed to appeal to little senses, and all 15 or so toddlers in the class were totally chilled out after their minimassages.

Reading is a perfect way for kids of any age to unwind, and it offers the added bonus of a really nice bonding time for parents to enjoy too.

Crank up the volume (just a little bit) to some soothing, low-key melodies to calm your kids.

Sure, it may sound a little out there, but aromatherapy works — even on kids. Lavender is known to have soothing and stress-reducing properties. Add a bit of essential oil to your tot's bath, a drop or two to their crib sheets (or pillow), or give them a gentle massage with some diluted lavender oil.