Question
My sons are two and three years old and we recently moved them into the same bedroom. This is the only room available at this time (my six month-old needs his own room). Bedtime went from a peaceful routine of reading a few books and tucking in to absolute madness (turning on lights, ripping up books, jumping on beds, climbing on furniture, accusations of hitting, cries for help etc); this occurs once I leave the room. These are usually well-behaved children. I can take them to church, the store, restaurants without issues.
I've reviewed other members' questions regarding the similar issues and here is what I've implemented thus far: I'm calm and consistent when I have to enter their room again, the door is locked so no one can come out (they don't seem to mind this at all), "doctor's orders" for early bedtime since they misbehave after tuck in (this does not bother them-bedtime is party time now), put the younger to bed earlier (he won't fall asleep), lock the door and let them work it out on their own (someone always gets hurt). We are going on about three weeks of this and because they are going to sleep later and later, the sleep deficit is affecting their daytime behavior and exacerbates the evening shenanigans. My husband often ends up yelling at them as things escalate.
I need some wisdom and advice, please. Thank you.
