Bewitching hour

Have you ever hit the five o'clock bewitching hour and by five thirty you're sitting on the couch holding three crying children? Or else the mood is generally low and children are listlessly lying around looking bored?  Do you want to spice things up? Do you want to get dinner on the table? Here's something practically guaranteed to work (if you have kids under the age of five or so): crank up the music and yell "Nakey Time!" While the kids are stripping to their underwear (or diaper), open the wine; this will help you cope with the ensuing noise. If desired, you may barricade them in the living room for all nakey dancing and chasing activities. You may also give a special dispensation for jumping wildly on the couches. Result, your children will behave like hoodlums in the other room while you work alone in the kitchen. You should have time to either make dinner or clean it up before someone is injured. 

Note: An added benefit is the children realize there are designated times for being wild animals. Not, for instance, when you have that nice new family over for dinner. Further instruction may be necessary.