I think that last 3 hrs awake is a bit much for jim.
I agree. A 3 hr A time is suitable for a 6 month old. If he can't handle 3hr in the day time then he is unlikely to handle a 3hr A time just before BT. This can be what is causing your increased difficulty at night.
Possible solutions are:
- make BT much earlier, 2hr 30 max to sleep time (not wind down)
- move the whole day on, increasing the first A time and possibly shifting morning WU later so that BT can be later but without a longer A time there
- put up with the more difficult nights until he is old enough to manage the longer A time
- increase the other A times in the day so that the last A time can be shorter but on the same length naps (or an increased A time might help to lengthen one of the naps which also helps to get through the day)
Early bed time is a favourite during routine changes and nap drops. It wouldn't be for ever but it depends if you think you can cut yoru afternoons and get back home early enough to accommodate LOs needs whilst also taking the family needs into consideration.