8 Ways to Keep Your Cool When Dealing With a Wild and Crazy Toddler

Figuring out how to communicate isn't easy, and the only way they'll learn and improve is through your encouragement. While it's important to teach them not to interrupt a conversation or phone call, it's also important to let them know that someone's listening and interested in what they have to say.

Source: Flickr user Royce Blair

With their little minds and bodies moving a mile a minute, even a good night's sleep probably isn't enough. Continue to push nap time for as long as they need it. If they simply won't fall asleep, at the very least enforce quiet time. Dim the lights, read a book, or let them just relax in the crib or bed.

Source: Flickr user Qihuii Hanabi

You may have had a busy day of errands and outings planned, but if your tot is content with his train or stacking toys, let him do his thing. It doesn't always take a guided class or sing-along for a toddler to learn important fine and gross motor skills.

Source: Flickr user K.B. Owen

The idea of operating without the confines of time is one that's all but impossible for adults to grasp, but for your toddler, it's reality. Little kids don't understand the concept of time, so keep in mind that all of your warnings of "Five more minutes!" are all but pointless to these little guys.

Source: Flickr user Eric Peacock

It may not always (or ever) feel like it, but you run the show! In your little kiddos' eyes, you hold all the answers, so don't let them down by breaking down.

Source: Flickr user Donnie Ray Jones

If your toddler loses his cool (and his mind) every time you try to make dinner or fold laundry, include him in the process. Give him a reasonable kitchen task (it's never too soon to master those whisking skills) or a stack of socks to match up, then be sure to provide your little helper with plenty of praise.

Source: Flickr user Rob, Alex, Joyce, & Nova's photostream

Because it's a whole lot more fun than crying. And let's face it: they're hysterical.

Source: Flickr user Eric Peacock