Time Out and Yo Gabba Gabba

A few months ago we implemented a "time out" policy for repeat offenders.  That meant that if one of the boys were caught in a compromising position, they were immediately placed in a playpen for a couple minutes.  This was meant to establish a cooling off period, and also show that bad actions have consequences.  This worked maybe three times before we realized that they enjoyed being put in the playpen.  Couple that with the fact that the two brothers not in time out would hurl toys over the gate and into the playpen for their incarcerated brother.  

We have since been using a wall in the living room for our time out area.  The boys are free to roam the living room, hallway, an empty bedroom, and the kitchen.  We have gated and baby proofed them into a pretty large area.  The only two things that would really get the boys in trouble are two pictures over the couch, and two end tables.  The pictures move when they bat at them, and they love to climb on the tables.  So if someone is caught in the act, they are moved to the time out wall for a period of 1 minute.  What we have found is that if one brother is in time out, the others like to join him. We can only hope that this solidarity carries on through the rest of their lives!

Andrew finds himself here more than he would like to admit.

Andrew uses his one phone call and quickly finds cellmates.

We appear before the judge in the morning.

Jared's defense was that he wasn't technically "on the table".

The boys haven't shown much interest in the television, except for the occasional commercial with bouncy music or certain sounds during a program.  We have watched all three stop in their tracks for the theme from "House", and then they resume whatever they were doing.  One day Daddy had the great idea of turning on Noggin, which is advertised as "preschool on television".  There are shows like Blues Clues and Dora the Explorer, so what would be the harm in this?  There is a program called Yo Gabba Gabba, and if you haven't seen it, it could best be likened to the old HR Puff and Stuff shows.  Its upbeat, breakneck, musical, and is meant to inspire children to get up and move.  The boys, Daddy included, absolutely LOVE IT! Unfortunately, the boys are transformed into these miniature zombies and will stand or sit and watch the whole show.  There has been more reaction recently, with someone dancing or clapping sporadically during the episode.  Other shows we enjoy are Toot and Puddle, and Pinky Dinky Do.  

What holds the attention of 3 toddlers?

What could they possibly be staring at?

It's DJ Lance Rock, the host of Yo Gabba Gabba!

 

Don't forget Toodee and Brobee!

Don't worry, folks, as we are limiting what they watch on TV.  They still don't pay much attention to most of the stuff we watch, but once they see that fuzzy orange hat...