Suggestions for tactics to deal with bickering siblings?

[wassername]

I have 2 boys aged 5 and a half and almost 3 yrs. They have recently started that annoying sort of bikering that children are so good at and I was wondering if anyone can guide me on tactics for dealing with this during the summer holidays when they will be together so much more. I also have a new baby (7 wks)so a bit restricted by her needs too. I was thinking about the sort of things I half remember from TV - a jar which you put marbles in if they play nicely and take them out if they squabble - that kind of thing. Has anyone tried something they could recommend?

[tenalady]

My dad used to bang our heads together

[wassername]

...so you were too dazed to bicker anymmore...hmm, worth a thought.

[stoppinattwo]

Leave them to it, dont get drawn in as it will really stress you out. unless they are drawing blood let them sort it out. Im presuming that they are generally fair and dont have any particular evil streaks

I find that when i get involved i end up being referee for the rest of the day

If you do need to sort things out make them both tidy their rooms.

If you use the marble jar which is a fab idea make it a joint effort with xtra point for cooperation (remember getting on without arguing isnt a reward thing, working together and helping each other is)

Good luck most important dont get sucked in tho or youll never get any peace

[OzJo]

A friend of mine had 3 kids, living in a fairly cramped flat..she had a couple of basic rules.
If not prepared to share a toy you can't play with it in front of the others. Whoverer got the toy first has first go, then you must take turns. If they threw wobblers it was naughty corner...Good luck.