Mom’s unexpected ‘zoomies’ trick instantly calms her crying toddler and parents are trying it

A simple, playful trick is going viral for its ability to stop toddler tantrums almost instantly. Parents everywhere know that meltdowns are a normal part of childhood, especially between the ages of 1 and 4, when kids struggle with frustration and a lack of control. But one Georgia mom has found a surprising way to calm her little one—by doing "zoomies."

If you've ever seen a dog suddenly sprint in circles with a burst of energy, you’ve witnessed zoomies, also called Frenetic Random Activity Periods (FRAPs). Now, a mother is using this same concept to stop her toddler’s tears in their tracks.

A viral parenting hack that actually works

Alivia Cromartie, a 26-year-old mom, shared her technique on TikTok, where it has been viewed more than 15 million times. In the video, her 18-month-old daughter, Icey, is visibly upset and crying. Instead of reacting with frustration, Cromartie starts running in circles around the room—just like a dog with zoomies. Within seconds, Icey’s mood shifts from tears to laughter. By the end of the clip, mother and daughter share a joyful hug, melting the hearts of viewers everywhere.

"POV: This is how you gentle parent when your toddler is on the verge of a meltdown … zoomies!"

— Alivia Cromartie

Cromartie explained to TODAY that Icey was simply "cranky" because she was hungry. "Icey gets upset when her food takes too long," she shared. But instead of letting frustration escalate into a full-blown meltdown, Cromartie relied on her foolproof distraction method.

"I’ve done zoomies in a grocery store. I’ll run up and down the aisles. I don’t care who sees."

— Alivia Cromartie

Parents watching the video were inspired to try the trick themselves, and many reported success. "It works!" one fan wrote to Cromartie. Another viewer commented, "This is wonderful, so glad I never had to deal with meltdowns❤️❤️❤️ my babies loved to laugh."

More parents using patience and love to handle tantrums

Cromartie’s playful approach isn’t the only example of a mom handling tantrums with kindness. Another viral video features Destiny Bennett, a mom from Las Vegas, using words of love to help her upset 5-year-old calm down.

Bennett’s son was visibly frustrated as they left their home, his anger taking over. But instead of scolding him, Bennett reassured him with gentle words. Their home security camera captured the touching moment as she told him, "I require your love. Okay? I love you." Slowly, he relaxed, and they shared a hug.

"I require your love. Okay? I love you."

— Destiny Bennett

Bennett later explained on Instagram that not every parenting technique works every time, but she strives to acknowledge her child’s feelings without minimizing them.

"Sometimes I have to use every fiber of my being just to stay calm and quiet my inner trauma."

— Destiny Bennett

Her approach highlights an important message: Kids don’t just need discipline; they need understanding and emotional guidance.

The takeaway: Laughter and love go a long way

Tantrums are a normal part of childhood, but the way parents respond can make a huge difference. Cromartie’s zoomies trick and Bennett’s heartfelt reassurance both show that humor, patience, and love can be powerful tools in helping little ones regulate their emotions.

So the next time your toddler is on the verge of a meltdown, consider doing something unexpected—maybe even running around like a happy pup. It just might turn tears into giggles in an instant.