Parenting is an enormous job.
Short school days don't exactly align with working days, and by 3.30pm many of us have already had a couple of coffees and are still running on empty.
It's around this time that screens can start to look particularly appealing.
I'll just put on a movie and get a little breather.
We've all been there.
But if you're trying to cut down on screen time, what are the alternatives for busy parents who are already on their second shift?
Here are eight ideas to keep up your sleeve for those afternoons when you need them.
1. Go to the library. Yes, the library!
Libraries are packed full of novelty. Books, magazines, colouring activities and, in some cases, little clubs to keep your crew entertained.
It's a change of scenery, it's free, and you don't have to organise a thing. Sometimes, that's all you need!
2. Make everyone a hot chocolate and sit on the couch together.
Contrary to what Instagram might have us believe, kids don't need to be constantly entertained. But they do thrive on having us around and feeling connected to us.
Sometimes, when I'm too tired to come up with a proper activity and dinner still feels like hours away, I like to get everyone settled on the couch with a nice hot chocolate.
Just a bit of cosy time together.
3. Swap a game with another parent.
Novelty is a brilliant trick for keeping kids entertained. A game they've never played before can brighten up an entire afternoon.
Ask a parent friend if you can borrow one of their family's favourites and swap games every now and again. It keeps things fresh, costs nothing and gives everyone something new to get stuck into.
4. Get the craft box out.
Bring out the paper, colouring pencils, stickers, glue, cardboard boxes and all those random bits you've been collecting.
Give the kids a little creative freedom and see what they come up with. Challenge them to make a robot, build a cardboard castle or create their own little shop.
You might even end up with a new masterpiece!
5. Give them a little challenge.
Once in a blue moon, my lot wake up before everyone else and spontaneously decide to make breakfast. It's hilarious and super cute. And because they're kids, it takes them absolutely ages to figure everything out!
But there's something lovely about it. That little bit of autonomy gives them a real sense of achievement, and it's something children don't always get enough opportunities to experience.
So why not let them prepare a snack, make a fruit salad or plan a little afternoon picnic?
Give them a simple task, step back and let them take ownership. You might be surprised by what they come up with!
6. Put on an audiobook.
Too tired to read another story? No problem.
We've all been there, yawning our way through the same children's book for the hundredth time.
Why not put an audiobook on a speaker and let everyone listen together?
It's a lovely way to give little minds something to focus on without needing to do much yourself.
7. Invite yourself over to someone with kids!
Sometimes, a change of scenery can work wonders.
Message a friend with children and see if you can pop round for a cuppa. The kids get someone new to play with, and you get a bit of adult conversation while they entertain each other.
Win-win!
8. Get them involved in a Vinted clear-out.
Have a pile of outgrown clothes, toys or books that need sorting? Get the kids involved!
Ask them to find things they've outgrown, sort through their toys or help photograph items to sell.
Who knew decluttering could double as an afternoon activity?
And remember, spending quality time together doesn't mean replacing every minute of screen time with a perfectly planned activity.
That said, having a few simple ideas ready can make those screen-free moments a little easier to find.