There are no two ways about it, while being a parent can bring huge joy, parenting is also hard - and relentless and exhausting. I have a 2 year old and a 4 year old, and I feel constantly pulled in different directions trying to meet their different needs, give them the attention they need and manage everything else in life too. Some days are harder than others, but I am always thankful for the wealth of coping strategies I have been able to learn to help me manage the tough moments.

I work with lots of parents (mainly Mums but some Dads too) who find themselves totally overwhelmed and in a cycle of shouting and snapping at their child. By this stage, often all the joy has gone out of parenting too. I teach them techniques to help manage their anger, frustration and anxiety and deal better with the high stress situations. It’s incredible the difference it makes. And the change isn’t just in the parents! Have you ever wondered why your child seems to be on their very worst behaviour on just the day that you are struggling most? Children are such sponges, picking up on tension from their parents and the resulting meltdown is their way of expressing concern and confusion. The good news is that parents I have worked with report that their children also become much better behaved!

A quick tip that can really help when you feel your stress levels building – Take 5 minutes out for a quick breathing technique which relaxes the whole nervous system. Breathe in for 3 seconds, hold your breath for 6 seconds and then release your breath slowly for 9 seconds. Repeat this for as long as you are able, but even a couple of breaths like this should help to calm and focus you.