What is time out and how does it work?

credit: CJ SorgTime out is a technique used with children to eliminate inappropriate behavior.

In order for time out to work everyone must understand what is expected and the rules must be enforced consistently. Consistency is the key.

• When misbehavior occurs, the child is warned and the offense stated: You have [hit your sister, thrown a toy, screamed at parent, etc.] If you do it again you will go to the timeout corner for X number of minutes. A guide is the age of the child: Five year old=five minutes of sitting or standing, without leaving timeout area.
• At the end of time, child says he is sorry and is hugged.
• If the misbehavior recurs then it is back to the time out area.

The Nanny, on the television show of the same name, does an excellent job of teaching parents how to effectively use time out and its variations. There are many books on the subject. Here are some that might be helpful to you:

1. Time Out Tot, by The Behavior Coach (DVD)
2. A Practical Guide to Solving PreSchool Behavior Problems, by Eva Essa
3. Time Out for Toddlers, by James W. Varni
4. The Baffled Parent’s Guide to Stopping Bad Behavior by Kate Kelly

We would appreciate any tips you have to pass on to other moms about what has worked or hasn’t worked for you and your kids.

Remember . . . consistency.

Mary Taylor, www.theschoolmarm.com