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Suggestions For Parents Giving a “Time-Out”

A time-out is a way of disciplining a child without raising your voice or spanking.  During the time-out the child is not allowed to play, talk, watch TV, or move from the designated time out location.   The location for a time out should be convenient for you so that you can observe the child. 

You may find that the child will resist the time out.  You should calmly place the child back in the original spot.  Never give in and allow the child to win.  Keep in mind, children do not like time-out so it is normal for them to resist and even express their dislike verbally.  Discipline works best when you administer it calmly.

Expert suggest 1 minute of time-out for each year the child has been alive.  Use a timer so that you remember to take the child out of time-out.  When placing your child in time-out tell your child what he or she did to deserve this discipline.  Keep the explanation simple and specific.  Do not argue or threaten.  Explain that the child’s behavior is unacceptable and then place them calmly in the time-out. 

Learn to catch your child being good.  Praise good behavior! 

1. Choose the time-out area so you can observe the child
2. Explain to the child why they are being put in time-out.
3. Use time-out every time the problem behaviors occur.
4. Do not talk to your child during time-out.
5. If your child gets up from the chair, return him or her to the chair
6. Your child must be calm and quiet to leave time-out once time is up.
7. Your child must answer yes politely when you ask, “Would you like to get up?”

Catch them being good and learn to praise them.

Written by Diane Gardner