I think you should like you are having an emergency reaction - you need to decide on rules (when they can watch TV etc) and then tell them and tell them the consequences. Maybe even write it down so it's clear to you and to them. Agree the rules and talk should be 2 different conversations that are age appropriate.

You could just unplug the TV and lock up the cables until further notice. Or just move it to your room.

Anonymous wrote:Don't take them out of school- that's a reward!

set expectations, tell them of the consequences and enforce consistently.

I think OP means after school. OP, I think removing tv is a good idea. I’d also talk to them separately about it. I think the conversation with a 14 yo is different than the conversation with a 7 yr old. I also think it’s still appropriate to give consequences to the older despite the pressures of school.

Set limits in real time. Read up on boundaries. Children don't have the self control to follow rules when the consequences are delayed. You yelling or lecturing isn't a consequence that matters to them, apparently.

Don't take them out of school- that's a reward!

set expectations, tell them of the consequences and enforce consistently.

Remove the TV, then take them to the park to explain why the TV is gone.

Anonymous wrote:I'd go home and remove the TV.

This exactly. Stop being a doormat.

I'd go home and remove the TV.

I am thinking about picking up my kids from school today and taking them to a park for a picnic snack to discuss the following... they are all watching too much tv, being rude to one another, calling me names... at home I cannot discuss because they just run to their rooms. One is 14 the other is 7. Please. I have been depressed all day that I have FAILED as a parent. Help! Is this a good idea. What do I do? I feel like punishment is hard for my 14 yr old because they are going through so much at school with academics and social