The context of the following conversation is Alex and Dawn's children were running wild, so Alex stepped in took control of them.:
Alex says My kids aren't the most well-behaved children in the world..
The friend responds That's how most children are..
Alex responds No, it's getting worst. I had to step in and take control of them last night..
The friend responds What did you do?.
Alex responds I turned off all electronics and made them go to bed without ice cream..