Reply #42: Okay, here's my $0.02 (converted from Canadian dollars)

[CatBoreal]

First off, you were wrong to issue that ultamatum, lesson learned on your part.

That being said, if you back down, you're going to loose your credibility.

I'm hoping you've got their presents already wrapped and under the tree. If you do, I would call them into the living room and have them watch while you take their gifts away. You'll probably get some tears and some 'Aw Dad's, which if your like my husband, will rip your heart out. Take them somewhere where the kids can't get at them - but don't tell them where (a neighbour's house is a good idea).

Sit the kids down and tell them why you are upset: they don't respect you, they don't respect each other, they don't respect the house they live in or the work you and your wife put into maintaining their house etc...

Then tell them that for every day that they behave themselves and treat you, your wife, each other and the house with the respect they deserve, they will have a gift returned to them to open on Christmas day. If they do not do so, or if all the gifts are not returned, then they will be donated to the charity of the children's choice.

I'm not sure how you can work it if the presents aren't currently under the tree.

That's what I would do.

Good luck Dad. You're going to need it.