pre-school/toddler boys

[enos]

Hi, I've lurked with interest for ages and now feel brave enough to post! I mind 2 boys of 3 and 4 who individualy are (almost) angels, however on the days that they are together it is a nightmare, neither will do as they are asked, they shout, run around, wind each other up and are generaly disruptive. I know alot of it is age and that's how boys can be but any tips would be appreciated. Thanks

Get out and go to other places e.g. groups. Lots of leisure centres do soft play which isn't too expensive for rainy days, or park on good days? Really focus their activity when they are in the house as well rather than just leaving them to it.

Agree with Weegle. They need lots of exercise, so take them for walks in the woods (muddy puddles, den building are great). When at home, they may play together for a bit, but will need some direction and referee at times. They may enjoy a large construction project, building a mini-town say from lego, train set, road pieces, etc.

Be firm and consistent, establish house rules and have a consequence for breaking them. Apply consequence consistently and do not favour any particular child - if in doubt as to who is the guilty one, apply consequence to both... it takes two to fight, argue etc.

How about having a set time for Shouting, Running Around etc. Could make it a game, with a stop-watch or even a sound-meter (who can get the loudest sound).

i have a 3yr old ds and he NEEDS to get out and run and be wild - we go out for a walk (with dog) every day and they(mindees)all love it even if it's cold or rainy actually esp. if it's rainy and muddy they LOVE puddles - when we get home from that they play together mainly very nicely with minimum intervention - my ds would love someone to wrestle with all day!!!!!

oh also we put on cd of animal songs from elc and they(we) charge about "dancing" and being tigers etc - great free fun but i need a cuppa tea afterwards!!!

Thanks for all your replies and ideas, I agree that the outdoor time is vital I do try to get to a group with an outdoor/softplay space as often as possible or go to the park. I think nannynick has also hit the nail on the head when mentioning house rules and consistency etc!