Cranky toddler

DS2 (age 22 months) is generally pretty happy & spends some time each day playing independently. But the last month or two he has just been cranky whenever we are at home (he is happy if I take him to a park, to the library, etc). He has had a couple of colds - so I understand him being cranky at those times - but now he just seems to be generally grumpy. He wants my attention all the time, cries/tantrums when he doesn't get his own way, follows me around crying at me... It's wearing pretty thin! I feel sorry for DS1 (age 4.5), because I often can't hear him over his brother & DS2 gets upset as soon as I start to play with DS1. Is this just normal?? Any suggestions for entertaining the two kids at the same time (without spending all day outside...)?

Hehe sounds like my boys. Sibling rivalry might be kicking in, along with the age.
I found semi-directing helps. Given tasks to do, whether helpful or playful gives them a sense of achievement and some structure. Roaming around the house trying to find something to do is not good day after day.
Perhaps you could make a schedule, loose or strict. That would help you and you'll know both boys are having some mummy time.
I find it so easy to rush everything and not give proper attention to anything if i don't have a rough schedule for the day.
Its awesome that you are taking them to the park. So good for them to have fresh air and learn how their bodys work- running jumping etc. your doing a great job :)

Sent from my Galaxy with the barefoot princess covering me in kisses, so please forgive the mistakes