This is why I serve breakfast at 8:30 and lunch 3 hours later at 11:30, then we have circle time right after lunch so we are winding down, the naptime between 12:30-1:00 to 3pm, then snacktime. This also allows us to get out the door by 9am and come back in at 11:00 so I can prepare lunch. I agree that you should prep as much as you can the evening before and for heaven's sake use your crockpot - it's a lifesaver!