Dinner time shenanigans - Help

[carocaro]

I don't like it.
I'm full.
I'm still thirsty (after lots of water)
Slow eating.
It's cold.
Spillages etc
And many many more.....

Why the F can't they just sit there shut up and eat. WHY WHY WHY.

Have done the whole asking nicely/shouting/starving children thing but has not worked.

On here now as DS1 8 is not leaving the table till he heats the v nice chicken in cider and parmesan pots. I feel the need to clip him round the head but won't.

What can be done?

Drives you mad doesn't it!!

A couple of thoughts ... are they eating too early? especially if they've had a snack when coming out of school. Maybe eating a bit later they'll be hungrier?

Without wanting to make loads of work for yourself, would the DCs be able to choose/help make a meal maybe once a week or so to encourage them to enjoy it more?

Do you eat with them? I don't, as I eat later with DH but I usually sit with them and have a cup of tea and a snack or something, talk about the day etc. If they are distracted by talking about other stuff maybe they'll just get on with eating rather than moan about what they've been given?

Time limit on teatime, ie if it's not eaten within 20mins it goes in the bin. I also have the problem with DS1 who fills himself up drinking. I only give him a small glass full and then tell him he can have more once he's finished.

PS their tea sounds lovely BTW, I'd eat it all up
Hope these might help!