9 Tips for Surviving the “Witching Hour”

The “Witching Hour.”

Also known as the perfect storm that occurs around 5:00 each afternoon. You’re trying to get dinner on the table, the kids are fighting, the baby is begging to be held, tensions are high.

Some days I’m not sure I can survive it. Can you?

9 Tips for Surviving the Witching Hour

1. Eat Something: Yes, I know you don’t want to spoil their dinner, but it’s amazing what a little food will do for a kid (or you!).  It doesn’t have to be a big snack – cut up an apple, pop some popcorn, cheese and crackers, or maybe even a popsicle.

2. Get Moving: Have your kids been moping around in front of the TV or iPad? Then, it’s time to get busy. Turn on some music and dance around the kitchen. Get them busy with an active game like Twister, hide and seek or a card game like spoons.

3. Calm Down: If your kids have been busy all afternoon then it’s time to mellow out. Put on calming music, encourage quiet activities like coloring, reading or checkers. Create a special box of toys that you pull out for your baby or toddler.

4. Have Some Water: Many  kids are dehydrated, which can lead to irritability.  Some will refuse water, so doctor it up with some lemon or a little bit of juice. Little kids may be lured by a different cup or a cool water bottle.

5. Go Outside: I know it’s winter, but if your kids are dressed appropriately, they will be fine (my friends in Minnesota can vouch for this). If it’s already dark, give them flashlights or glowsticks.

6. Change the Routine: If your children are flexible, mix up the nightly schedule.  Give them dessert before dinner, let them play for a while in the bathtub or get their pj’s on early.

7. Encourage  Helping: Give your kids a job around the house or have them help with meal prep.  Find age appropriate things they can do. Even if it seems like more work, they may enjoy being with you and feeling useful. (Read: Why I Let My Toddler Use a Knife)

8. Laugh: It’s probably the last thing on your mind during this time of day, but you can change your mood by changing your body language. Tell some jokes, watch a few funny youtube videos or at the very least, fake a smile.

9. Plan Ahead: Prepare what you can before things get tense.  Maybe that means throwing something in the crockpot, making a meal plan so you’re not scrambling or taking a deep breath.

Let’s Help Each Other

How do you get through the “witching hour?” What ideas can you offer? What works for your family? Please share!