When my kids are raging about having to do something (e.g. go to an activity, empty the dishwasher), explain why it's important and then walk away.

Half the time they calm down and so the thing with little or no complaint. The other half of the time it gives us both a chance to calm down so negotiations can continue in a less heated manner.

Kids open their mouths when their heads are upside down - great way to quickly investigate what exactly they're chewing on

Somehow, simply touching my kids helps calm them down enough to sleep. Now my four year old reaches for my hand at night. Am I trapped for a while? Yes. Do I mind? Not one bit.