How the eff do people discipline within nosiy chaos?

[JumpRope]

End of my tether - the levels of noise from crying, screeching, singing (normally ds singing when dd wants to - then carrying on in an annoying voice whilst she screams), whining, and basic shouting are making it impossible for me to be heard to try and stop bad behaviour going on.

Often, it's in the car, or first thing in the morning, or when we're out - times that just aren't really practical to do time out. It seems to be pretty much constant.

I can't handle the levels of conflict between my dcs, who are 3 and 4. But I have to shout over the top of them to try and stop it all, or even find out what's going on - it's a mystery to me half the time who is enjoying themselves or perpetrating the chaos and whose the victim.

My own parents just used to shout at all of us, regardless of what was going on - no blame was apportioned, it was just the kids 'being naughty' and I want to avoid is, but equally, I don't want to take sides, so I often end up saying nothing.

How do others do it when the noise levels are already unbearable?

I haven't got a bloody clue because I'm in the same boat (and we've got three dc so even worse!). I've had friends (who had one frigging child) solemnly say that they didn't agree with shouting, and I had to reply Oh fuck off "It's the only way they actually hear me!"

I will watch this with interest.

Divide and conquer!
Take one off to the side for a quiet word and a calm down, then repeat with the other.
Mine are younger though.
In class I find that shouting above the din only results in a sore throat. Instead I sing (shock them into silence!), clap a rhythm or do body movements for them to copy. Then, when they're quiet and listening, I talk as quietly and calmly as possible. It doesn't work every time but is better than yelling.

Makes me feel a bit better MargotLovedTom.

Taking off to one side sometimes works, but usually the other one follows and I have to consider locking the door to get some peace - if I shut the door, massive tears.

I forgot to mention the dinosaur roaring, sweet Jesus, today

i had 3 kids in 4 years. Eldest is six now. I clap my hands loudly and order everyone to look at me. That makes them shut up. Then I issue instructions.

My DM says I am very bossy, which is true, but it keeps me everyone sane.

My eldest has taken to doing the same, which is a bit disconcerting :)

I'm always annoyed with myself when I shout 'stop shouting' it's clearly never going to work as a long term strategy.

But as I do it at least once a day, I obviously don't have the answers!