4pm slump? How does everyone do it please

[Illprobsregretthis]

I have a 7 month and 2.5 year old at home with me whilst I’m on maternity leave. Partner works, leaving at 830, back by 6ish.

We have a good schedule of activities throughout the week - usually playgroup, home for lunch, park / library, visiting family, home for about 4ish.

The problem is at 4pm I genuinely feel like I am completely devoid of energy. I sometimes feel a sense of despair - like how am I going to get through the next few hours.

It doesn’t help the baby is almost always exhausted by this point but it’s way too late to nap - his bedtime is 630pm. So he’s just a complete cranky moan (teething also!)

Can anyone help me with tips to get through these 2 hours? How does everyone do it? I’m up half the night with the baby so it doesn’t help.

SOS guys

I'd consider bunging the toddler in the bath and sitting on the floor with the baby and some toys. Change of scenery...

The weather is changing so I’d get them out for a run around and then come home and have a high energy snack.

Since you’re already out alot I wouldn’t feel guilty if that was free playing time with a Disney film on in the background.

Omg why didn’t I think of bath?! Bath is genius. Bath would give me at least 30 mins if I stretched it out

YES I am hoping and praying that the sunshine will help in this scenario. Can’t wait to just open the back doors and let them play!

The days are coming. Hang in there.

honestly, it feels like torture every day!!

like others have suggested, bath or get outside.

Haha, glad it’s not just me. I think tbh the dark nights are making it feel so much more claustrophobic and grim. Hoping the sunshine will bring a bit of relief! Also I’m on mat leave so it’s verrrrry intense rn, assuming when I’m back to work and can eat lunch with cutlery or Peppa Pig in the background it’ll feel a bit less nuts. Solidarity x

I always had quiet time after lunch with those ages. I usually slept for an hour and they did too. Yes you can't do activities after lunch but then you get out at 3/4pm for a walk/meeting. I made a point of not answering the door and discouraging visits then. Siesta! If you have been up since 7 and on the go it's not surprising you are exhausted by 4pm.
Also someone told me but I failed on this I'm afraid to say, prepare supper to reheat and wash all prep etc IN THE MORNING. Even the simplest cooking feels overwhelming at teatime.

This is such a good idea!