My son, 2.5 is my biggest challenge in the day as well. I felt like just closing my daycare and going back to my old job, or sending my son to another daycare part time just to get a break...but I did this so I could stay home with my kids so it really broke my heart that my son was acting out so bad! I now do what above have mentioned, I separated all his favourite toys and put them in his room..he goes there for alone time during the day or gets special alone time on the iPad. I also take 15 mins before nap, after everyone else is already down, to sit and cuddle him and watch a show together or read books...just reconnect. It got so much better, but I was to the point of telling him I was going to send him to another daycare which was horrible for me to say!! I also have a 1 year old, I am hoping she doesn't go through the same thing lol