I have three sons between 6 and 12. They are good boys at heart but DH and I struggle to keep them under control. I do have rules and high expectations of good behaviour so its not for want of trying. Maybe I go back on punishments too much sometimes.
I really don't know what to do about today though. We were watching a school production and I left the elder two to go and get the youngest one from downstairs. While I was downstairs the middle boy comes down crying. Seems his older brother (12) punched him hard in the stomach after the middle boy hurt him while larking around. I know DS2 is not without blame but I am appalled at DS1s behaviour considering he is a senior at the school and it it was in front of teachers, parents, little kids. One mum intervened apparently.
I'm not sure how I should punish DS1 to be honest and I am so sick of feeling like I have to have the boys on a tight leash ALL of the time. There seems to be a lack of respect to each other and towards both me and DH. I thought I was a pretty tough parent doing a good job but their behaviour makes me wonder if I am any such thing. Part of me thinks that its to do with tiredness near end of term but I am also sick of making excuses for them all the time.
AIBU to expect better behaviour from three boys?