Struggling to parent during lockdown. Please help.

[Lockdownhelp]

I have one DC, 9, who I am of course very close to. I'm single.

Before lockdown I had to ask him to do something several times before it was done but in the last month I am getting to the point where I can't take it anymore.

He doesn't do a thing I ask and constantly does things I ask him not to do. I have tried every stick and carrot going but he's getting worse and worse. He doesn't feel the need to do anything I ask of him or tell him to do or to listen to me.

I'm getting so depressed about it that I don't even want to be around him at times. I'm usually very patient but I'm starting to lose my temper and raise my voice and I don't want to be like that.

He is very remorseful when he realises how naughty he is being but his behaviour doesn't improve. We've talked about feelings. I've been as understanding as I can be of how difficult it is to be at home alone with me but it is ruining our relationship and I don't know what to do.

I have a ds who's 11. I'm single so he's only seen me for weeks and familiarity was definitely breeding contempt.

So we now have one clearly understood rule. I ask once nicely, then if not done, I ask again less nicely, and if still not done, the Nintendo goes in the loft for 24 hours. No excuses, no exceptions, no discussions.

It took three days of name calling and tantrums, now we are back to a calm and sensible relationship. Just don't blink first.

We have a routine. I know it's hard. I try to give him on-line time with friends and family, I cook his favourite food, I'm doing everything I can to help but I refuse to be in lockdown with a selfish, contemptuous child. I'm probably wrong, but we both need to get through this sane.

Good luck