Whether you're a teacher, camp counselor, child care worker, nanny or even a parent, we all know kids can be unbelievably unpredictable. We all have those days where nothing seems to go right. The kids are rowdy and won't listen to a word you say. They're upset about another kid pushing them around or have a scrape from falling on the sidewalk. Before you make them all sit criss-cross-apple-sauce in silence for the next three hours until they get picked up by their parents, read these tips and know you can make it through even the toughest days with the right attitude.

1. Just breathe

Sometimes when you have 15 kids running around playing freeze tag, you'll have three kids surrounding you arguing about the rules, a kid with a bloody nose sitting at your feet and two kids throwing rocks at each other, all before you do another head counts and realize you only have 14 kids because one decided to take a little break behind the bushes. It's easy to get wrapped up in all the chaos, but yelling will only get you a scratchy voice (believe me, I know). It's important to take a step back and analyze the situation. Take a deep breath and figure out who needs your attention most urgently. Figuring out a game plan will help you solve the situation flawlessly. Clear your head before you try to clear the air.

2. Appreciate the good things

Gratitude goes a long way, both for you and the child. There will be kids who listen better than others at certain times. If you see something you like, let them know how much you appreciate their cooperation in helping things go smoothly. For the best effect, thank them in front of the other children. They will feel a sense of pride and accomplishment and the others will likely follow suit, wanting to earn your praise as well. Acknowledging the good things, instead of only the bad, will help you realize it's not so bad after all.

3. Ask for help

You can't be everywhere at once. When things really get out of hand, use your resources. You may be determined to handle every situation on your own, but you shouldn't be afraid to reach out if you need something. You have people who are there to support you and want you to succeed. Asking for help will give you a moment to breathe and take some of your stress away. You deserve it.

4. Know it's not your fault

Some kids will drive you up a wall. Kids will be brutally honest with you. Didn't have time to shower? They'll ask why your hair looks bad. Didn't get enough sleep? They'll comment on your lack of energy as if you didn't already know. Kids are complex. Remember that if they're not getting along with someone, it likely isn't something you did. Don't beat yourself up about it. Just like you, school or camp isn't the only thing they have going on in their life. Every child comes with their own unique experiences, which can all affect how they treat situations and interact with others. If they're acting in a way you don't want them to, address it, but know you probably aren't the reason they are acting out.

5. Be a role model

Whether it seems like it or not, kids look up to you. To them, you're even cooler than sliced bread. It's okay to not always be on your A-game, but when kids try to tell you something, listen to them. Ignoring them or yelling will only encourage them to act the same way in their relationships with others. They won't remember everything you said, but they will certainly remember how you made them feel. Be sure to lift up and not put down. Be assertive and discipline when it's needed, but don't forget to make a fun and effective learning environment.

6. Remember: They're only kids

In the end, kids will be kids. We were all there once. Their attention span is sub-par and they have trouble keeping their emotions in check. We shouldn't expect them to act like adults because they're not adults. They're still learning and growing. Having the opportunity to influence a child's life is so special. Never forget that you are providing them with opportunities that they may only have one time, or are there to experience it with them for the very first time. That's something kids will never forget. While sometimes they drive us crazy, we wouldn't do our jobs if we didn't love kids and their spontaneous and adventurous spirits. In the end, nothing is more important.