Re: How do you deal with annoying little children?
Turning on tv and giving the kids popcorn might be a temporary fix. And if it's not a temporary fix......then it could lead to other problems. I think kids shouldn't be exposed to too much tv. Programs on tv might be comical (such as cartoons), but they're not always educational. And you will also have to monitor what the kids are watching. Kids can learn much more by reading a book, which is very good for their development. Also, if watching tv becomes a habit......then kids miss out on exercise......and could gain weight.
Be firm with children and apply your consequences regularly. For example, when you tell a child, "The next time I see you riding your bike in the house, you will not be allowed to use your bike for one week.".................If the kids rides the bike in the living room the next time..................then YOU BETTER take that bike away for one week. Kids like to test their parents and teachers. They like to see how far they can go. And if you apply your consequence.........they learn that you mean SERIOUS BUSINESS.....and are more likely to behave. If you don't apply the consequence.........they think that the parent is lame and too weak to punish. So don't fall for the tears and the screaming or yelling. If your warning was not taken seriously......and the toys need to be taken away......then put them away........if they need to be sent to the room.....then send them........if they need to sit in time out........then do it........if they make a mess......then THEY can clean it up, etc. That way you'll teach responsibility for actions.
First you need to determine what the "annoying" behaviors are. Is it screaming, running around, doing things without permission, or talking back? Then you need to sit down with the kids.......and have them look at you. And you need to tell them which behaviors of theirs are problematic. Communicating like this is better than yelling at them. Tell the kids your expectations, rules, and consequences for breaking those rules.
^Focus on the positive. When a child is behaving well for even 10 minutes.......then praise him. That will motivate him to continue the good behavior. Praise the child in front of the other siblings so it can motivate them as well. If all kids have been behaving, then reward them with a treat (going to the park, getting ice cream, etc).