Wow! Thank you for all the replies

Artechim - talking is one of our issues in that he never stops talking. Ever. He even talks in his sleep. I'm happy to listen to what he has to say but sometimes (like when I'm on the phone or talking to someone else) he needs to be polite. Ha. Maybe I'm doing it wrong? I've tried talking it out with him but we always come back to the 'I won't do it again' and 'I don't know' as to why he is doing it. It stops for a short while and then back to it.

FL - I don't know. If I knew I would aim to solve it in a heart beat for him but this has been getting progressively worse. I don't believe he is being bullied, but I do think some of his friends have called him on his atrocious behaviour too. He tells me that he cries at school because he misses me, yet, he has my full undivided attention these holidays and if anything, he is much worse.

Pholi - thanks for the suggestion, I've only had a quick look online as the book is out at the library (which I'll have a proper look at), but it looks to be quite difficult if you have other dietary restrictions

Arcadia - thank you I think I will do that tonight

Kateo - I didnt get the stickers but my Lord did I praise him today. I made sure I really focused in on his good behaviours, even if they were hard to find at some stages. We had a huge chat this morning about everything and laid down some basic expectations (like please and thank you!) and I made a real effort today to praise him over and over for the little things, even if he wasn't doing the big things. I also made a point of 'shaking our sillies out' before we went into the store to get the milk. Best shop in years!

Arimeh - I hope it passes soon for everyone.