Any tips on how to stop my dc interrupting each other?

[Hottypotty]

DC are 5 (nearly 6) and (just) 3. They both never shut up talk a lot.
When they are with me they both want to talk to me but don't seem to have any awareness of the other.
I think dc1 is old enough to know it's rude to interrupt or talk over someone and to be fair when reminded she will wait while younger dc talks.
I do ask them to take turns and constantly remind them that the other is talking but it is hard work and doesn't make for relaxed conversation!
And to think I was looking forward to dc1 to have someone else to talk to besides me!

[catzpyjamas]

What about something they can hold that allows them to talk? If one child is holding it and talking, the other can't interrupt. Preferably something with a timer then when time's up they hand it over. When it's your turn, they both have to stay quiet

[margaritasbythesea]

I just referee with slightly exaggerated politeness (so they notice).

[margaritasbythesea]

Oh. And sometimes I kind of flap my arms up and down looking pained while squealing, 'I can't talk to you both at once!' Though I don't think that is actually a strategy.

[Hottypotty]

Haha-yes I've tried that approach too! I think I added in sticking my fingers in my ears too!
Actually dh isn't great at waiting to talk either so sometimes I get all three of them which is absolutely intolerable.
Object is a good idea-I would have to take it everywhere with me though

[Zebda]

Mine (7 and 4) interrupt each other and then get really cross/upset when the other talks over them. It's the biggest source of arguments in our house and I wish I knew how to stop them.... Not helpful but watching replies closely

[Clawdeen]

Zebda- are you me?! My 7 and 4 year old are just the same. The arguments regarding interruptions are insane as are the tears that follow. I can feel my blood pressure rising just thinking about it!

[Hottypotty]

Oh yes mine get furious with each other too. Particularly bad on the walk home from school when eldest has things from the day to tell me and youngest wants to comment on every crack in the pavement.

[RandomHouseRules]

I have this problem too. I point at the child I am listening to, and sort of really emphasise the point when the other is talking over. Sometimes it works...,

[Zebda]

Yep clawdeen we get shouting, crying, stomping off, shoving, pinching, you name it. Sigh.

Sometimes I get them both to be quiet then say, right DD' you have 3 minutes, then it's DS's turn for 3 minutes. It works...sometimes...

[Zebda]

I do like catz's idea of a talking stick. Will try that tomorrow.