Yes, it can be very challenging when trying to fairly discipline siblings that are several years apart. It's understandable how frustrating it must be when you have three kids coming at you complaining that they aren't getting fair treatment at the same time. First, remember to make each of them talk one at a time. Remind them that you can't talk to three people at once, so when they stop talking over each other then you'll be able to help. Simply wait in silence for them to take turns. It is fair to give them each different consequences and rules because they are so far apart in age, so don't let them argue that it's not. They may not always agree with you, but stick to your first answer, unless they learn to appropriately disagree. It's an important skill that is easy to teach. The steps to appropriately disagreeing are:

1. Look at the person you are disagreeing with.
2. Use a pleasant voice tone (free of sarcasm or anger).
3. Say "I understand How You Feel."
4. Tell why you feel differently.

Ask your kids to use these steps after they have been given a decision they don't like. Tell them that if they use the appropriate steps, your decision won't always change, it will be more likely that you will reconsider that decision. Sometimes they will have to learn to accept your "no" answer even if it's not what they want to hear. Once they learn that you simply won't listen to their arguing, they will begin to change their behvior.

We hope this gives you a good start!!

Sincerely,
Boys Town National Hotline
1-800-448-3000