So after a few weeks of getting really fed up and feeling like a terrible person for constant nagging and shouting, me and my DP have introduced the concept/experiment of Parents on Strike week. Mainly to get the 3 kids (10, 11 and 14) to pick up some more responsibilities and also NOT to be bailed out every time they forget their packed lunch, PE kit etc etc.
So the rules are that they get themselves up (no shouting up the stairs 'It's 8 o clock!!', make their own breakfast, clear up and make their own lunch. Get themselves ready for school and out the door (we still walk the youngest) and then after school make sure they do all their homework - no nagging from us (although we will help if asked) and make family dinner. Any specific item they need - sports kit, books etc they have to sort out/wash etc and if not they will face the consequence.
So far, I'm v impressed! They have done a meal planner and washing up rota and this morning they sorted everything out they needed to. Only downside is that place is a complete bombsite, but given there is no nagging allowed I'm just breathing deeply and ignoring it!! Middle one decided to buy his own lunch rather than making it but I think his cafeteria card will run out after today so that's his option!
Will keep you posted.