I have taken away things. I have yelled. I have talked to them. I have said the "I'm so dissapointed in your behavior" speech. Nothing is helping. Last night we had a long/loud discussion in the van about how their fighting is driving me batty. I told them we won't be going out to eat until they can behave. I am fed up to HERE with it.
Then I calmed down and started thinking. What am I doing to add to the problem? Mmmm yelling is probably not a good idea. I also started wondering if they are under too much stress and the only place they can take it out is with each other and me. Still no excuse since they are old enough to use words but maybe it is time I redirect us all and focus on positive behavior instead.
After Faith Formation last night we came straight home - I would not let them play in the gym like normal as that was the punishment for the last round of fighting/pushing/sneering at each other. We got home, sat at the kitchen table and Elizabeth did her homework, Ella read from her Bob books and I checked Ella's homework and did Dad's bills.
When Elizabeth was done with math, I had her read the Junie B Jones book we had been reading together. It was all calm except for when Ella kept putting her feet on the wall but that was an easy fix. We sat together and did our stuff and I made sure to pay attention and listen and everyone was alot better.
This morning we all got ready and talked about our day and about how it was nice to finish that book. I hope I can continue to redirect but will continue to give consequences if the fighting gets out of hand.
I don't remember fighting like this with my brothers. But, maybe I am just too old to remember. :-)
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