Why does a shouted 'NO' only ever seem to get through to DS's 5 & 10?

[carocaro]

I have just yelled at them NO because saying NO normally about 50 times does not get throught to them. 5yo DS is now sobbing but I don't actually care (yes I know heartless bitch) 10 yo gone off in a huff slamming doors and again I don't really care. They wanted to do something and I said no but they go on and on and on and on and on and on at me, nothing ever seems good enough, they always want more and won't take no for an answer.

WTF is up with that!?!

Sympathy - had that "discussion" this morning. I have a reward system and if they nag me, I remove one of their rewards. It helps them work out that no can actually mean no and after one or two gos of begging, if I then say "if you ask me again (nag me to change my mind so I am worn down and give in) then I will remove a reward. Works for me. (Imperfectly but it works!)

More sympathy, mine are younger but I can see my future in your post.

Some days I end up yelling, and only then will the 4 year old pat me consolingly and patiently say 'OK then Mummy' before doing as I've asked trying not to call her a sarcastic little moo

If i knew the answer to your question i would be a very happy lady!!

My dc are 11,7&4...only 1 week left of the Christmas holiday!