How do you cope with 'grump o'clock' at this time of year (3.30-5pm) - 15mth

[milkyman]

I used to take ds for a walk in pram at this time but its too dark and cold. He just wanders round the house whining despite trying to entertain him. He has tea at 5pm.

or I'd move tea to 4pm , then splash about in the bath for half an hour, then cuddle up in front of cbeebies until bedtime

Also watching for tips. DS not really interested in telly (he'll look at it for a few mins then get bored).

Taking him to the supermarket cafe/Ikea for tea was my fallback. Lots going on there, gets him fed w/o having to try to distract him while cooking.

agree ds not v interested in tv, in fact not interested in much at this time...

I just make extra effort to play and try different things otherwise I'd kill him

Walk regardless. Invest in good waterproofs. Run errands: supermarket, post office, bank, appointments. Swimming is a good indoor activity. Soft play.

Failing that, TV.

This is the hardest time of day for me too , my toddler doesnt know what he wants to do with himself. Have only cut out naps in last month or so , how long is this afternoon craziness going to last?? :)

My 9 mth ds is like this. I was hoping it got better. It's a nightmare to cook and look after a grumpy baby.

How long does he go between dinner and tea? Could he be hungry? Perhaps bring tea forward or have a snack on between? Does he have a nap? If so could you tinker with that so he doesn't get overtired?

My 8mo is the same and always has been in late afternoon. They call it the witching hour haha. I hoped it would peter out. I often end up pacing the floor aimlessley with er glued to my hip! She now goes to bed at 545 and it has made it all easier! (She doesnt nap much and sleeps through until 6-7)

I still find this the hardest time with my 2 year old. He is not as bad as he was, he basically just used to wander around hitting things and crying no matter what we did. Now he's just moody and defiant but I find it hard to juggle DS1 who is also tired after school and DS2 whilst trying to prepare dinner for everyone. Ours goes on from 3:30 til 5:15 ish when we have tea. I've tried snacks, playing, reading, dancing around like a lunatic with him. Basically anything is too much stimulation for him so he whinges or he's bored so he whinges. Can't win really. My DS was the same. It did end...just can't remember when!