Every parent has days when the frustrations of the job get to them.

Toys are scattered throughout the house, the baby wont sleep and the 3-year-old is climbing onto the roof. Whats a parent to do?

Jordan Able, of Makanda, understands the frustrations and stresses of parenting. She is mom to 3-year-old Jensen and is expecting a baby girl in May.

When asked how she overcomes those frustrations and stresses, she replied Friday that one of the reasons they were at Evergreen Park in Carbondale was it has been one of those weeks.

Getting outside, like spending a day at the park, reduces stress for children and adults. The National Wildlife Federation says a connection to the natural world is essential to the health and development of children.

Benefits include increased fitness, higher levels of Vitamin D, improves distance vision and fewer symptoms of ADHD, among others.

Sometimes, it is throwing out the routine and doing something fun to recharge, Able said.

Dorothy Cozart, of Carbondale, a mom and grandma, has methods to help her cope.

The first thing I do is I pray," she said. "Then I take a long bath and listen to smooth, relaxing music."

When the children are stressed, she takes them to a park.

Fionsha Self of Carbondale is mom and foster mom to eight children, including five who are with her all the time. She has developed what she calls system breathe.

First she counts down from 10. Then, then she inhales and pays attention to the scents around her.

I realize all these beautiful kids are a blessing. They are helping me become who I was meant to be, Self said. Being a foster parent is my calling in life, Self said. I wouldnt trade it for the world.

Shannon Thompson, of Anna, is a mom to boys ages 4 and 7 who are big fans of "American Ninja Warrior" (think running, jumping and climbing). She uses the same advice she gives her sons: Take a long break and count to 10 to deal with anger.

She admitted that, sometimes, she has to raise her voice so the boys know she is serious.

Its hard being a parent," she said "I tried to give up yelling for Lent. I told the boys we are a family and we need to talk nicely to each other."

Zachary and Megan Sims, of Carbondale, have daughters ages 6 and 3. What helps Zachary most is to make sure he and his wife have a strong relationship.

I put a lot of care into our marriage, Sims said. It is important for any parent to have a strong support network of family and friends.

Parents Care and Share of Illinois has a list called 25 Things to do Instead of Hitting or Screaming. Here are a few of their suggestions:

If you can safely leave your kids alone and go outside, walk, jog, bike or run. If you cannot safely leave the kids, take them on a walk.

If its impossible to get outside, jump rope, do jumping jacks or run in place.

Find something to laugh about: cartoons in the newspaper, a funny television program or a silly video.

Bake bread and knead the dough by hand.

Sit down with a cup of tea and do absolutely nothing.

Turn on lively music and dance.

Work in the yard or garden.

Clean out the refrigerator.

Think about ways to reduce stress before it happens.

Self says to enjoy the moments with your children. They will not last forever.

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Parents give advice for dealing with frustration - The Southern