Ella also had an 'evil hour' around 5pm at that age too for a bit. We managed to solve it quickly with giving her a soothing bath with a massage using lavendar and camemile cream, quiet music in background and lower lights.

During the day we also started a firm routine of feed, activity (like tummy time, under her playgym, singing and toys etc...) then as soon as we'd glimps a yawn, jerky movement or eye rub our 'sleep routine' would begin with going into Ella's room, have a quiet cuddle in her rocking chair, have her sleeping music playing, blinds closed.... After 5-10 mins of settling down i'd wrap her tightly in her cot, dummy in - say something like have a lovely sleep sweetheart...see you later - and walk out. We did the same thing each time and very quickly Ella seemed to understand it was sleeping time when we entered her room and the blinds closed/music on...

It really was something that worked for us - each baby is different though and it does take a bit of time to figure out what will suit you and your little one. I really hope things get a bit easier soon