The Witching Hours
When I was working a day job in California, I had heard that the late afternoon was usually the longest time with our kids and many other kids. The whining gets louder, the fighting with siblings gets rougher, and the parents’ inner monologues (and perhaps outer) get fouler. Just as we try to set up routines for them this is the point in the day where the routines tend to break down. The reality is that most are just (a) tired even if they nap (b) hungry even if they just had a snack and (c) anticipating the arrival of the other parent from the work day.
So I knew this was the case and sure enough it is true in Nebraska too. And not just with our family but with families at both of our kids schools. Right now I am trying to get through the 4-5:30 time slot with a combination of rough-housing in the basement and 30-45 mins of Curious George DVD. What I’ve been reminded of and humbled by is that my kids are indeed individuals who have their own likes and dislikes and that while they appreciate a schedule they really want to do what they want to do.
For those that don’t have young kids or haven’t had thme in awhile, let me put out a plea to be extra sympathetic to the the parent of a melting town toddler or kindergartener in public if it is in the late afternoon – they still have bedtime to navigate!
Here is how I used to get through it: Sarah Gilbert and Pardee Park.