Quick, help me keep my shit together right now

[jamoncrumpet]

Been at home all day with 5yo DS (who is autistic) and toddler with streaming cold. DH at work until very late tonight.

At the end of my rope with them and would v much like to shut them in the living room and stand in the hallway for a good cry.

Obvs I won't do that but how can I get through the next hour? It's been a very long week with very little input from DH and I am exhausted.

It’s time for a film! Get comfy clothes/pyjamas and a blanket. Film and snacks. Toys on the floor for short attention spans. Tissues and coffee.
It’s nearly bedtime.
You’ve got this!!

Put them in the bath?

coattails has it.

Breathe deep OP, it will be ok

I just tried to walk into the kitchen, the toddler held onto my foot to stop me. And the big one has crapped itself.

Get them to play sleeping lions on the floor.

I put the tv/a film on in this situation. Whatever they want to watch, whatever food they will shut up and eat. Make a cup of tea and sit staring into the abyss. You will make it through. I have faith.

Oh crap. Literally. Prolonged bath time?

Shut the door, have a cry, then let them do/have whatever will placate them until bedtime.

Oh crikey. Keep calm deep breaths. Clear up big one give small something like a snack if you can so you can. Then a film, tv, tablets whatever it takes... do you have wine???

Put them in the bath with lots of bubbles and get yourself some wine or gin.

I really hope dh is on duty tomorrow for them to give you a break.

Takeaway and Strictly?

Oh you poor babe. I'm afraid you'll get through it the way women always get through it, by gritting your teeth, cleaning up the shit, and doing what needs to be done until it's bedtime.

And then you need a glass or ten of wine or tea, something sinful to eat (takeout delivered?) and a bloody good cry.

I know this is not the done thing here, but sending you hugs. I wish I could come round, help entertain the little one, and clean up the shit on the big one for you. And bring supplies.

It feels so alone on days like this, doesn't it? And it's always the day when DH is working late. . .

I thought I was having a bad day!!! Sorry no advice 😟

I don't think a deep breath is going to help matters ...

I can totally relate ! I too have a 5 year old with autism and a toddler . Some days seem Endless and some definitely seem harder than others . Putting them intro the bath always works for me . They can have a play and the water seems to relax them . Also touching base with my asd mammy friends on the ba days makes me feel less alone . Sending you a big hug x

Oh poor OP. We can all relate. Any treats in for the kids? And plan something nice for you once they're in bed, not long to go now

Do you have a double buggy? A long walk and a take out coffee for you may help clear your head?

If you don't have a look at doubles that would work (many sn ones available and charities such as new life will help with funding).

You need to get out for fresh air and change of scenery for yourself because if you crash it'll make things worse.

Does TV/iPad help? Have been there - 4 dc, two with ASD all born within 5 years of each other.

I’m usually strict in screen time, but needs must. Whatever your forbidden food is also?

Start bedtime routine early if you need to! DH can get up with then first thing.

Bananas and custard ? Hot chocolate drink? Marmite on toast for you ? First two help initiate sleep, last one helps stress.

Can you take them out of the house? Even 20 minutes for them to run off some steam/tire themselves out? Then do bath and early bed. Even if you have to snuggle them up in front of the tv to get them to settle.

I don't think a deep breath is going to help matters

In fairness I wrote that BEFORE the crap...

Poor OP, hope you’re holding on OK. We’re with you in spirit!

Single parent and I shut them in with the TV and cry often. They don't even like the TV so it doesn't really work I have to bribe them to watch it!

I had mine in the bath for an hour this morning... they literally just played in the water, no screaming, no fighting... it was great

I would start bedtime now if I were you

Maybe a TV or tablet for the toddler or can they “help” with sorting out the older one (get wipes/pull funny faces to distract).

((((Op)))

Oh you poor love.

Right - clean the crap.

Picnic supper on the floor with TV on.
Anything for an easy life even if it means sweets as well.
Give them both calpol and nurofen to help sleep
Sing songs until DH is home and then let him take over

I have no words but wish I could pop round and give you an hour off.