Before I even start, I just want to share my deep sadness for all those affected by the fires. The devastation is so unbelievable.

These days, beyond all the painful news, I have also been thinking a lot about stress in homes. I know I am not alone in saying that tense interactions in my home can happen pretty darn quickly with everyone around each other so much of the time. Many of us are now even more locked inside because the air quality outside is at unsafe levels. And, then, the hecticness of online school starting is making things worse.

Today I am sharing some ideas for parents to help decrease tension in the home. Focusing on what we can do — rather than what others are doing that annoys us — is key in bringing down our anxious feelings. And we all know that bringing down our own stress level works wonders in lowering stress in the entire home.