by Natasha Mcfarlane

Created on: February 10, 2010   Last Updated: February 12, 2010

Time-out as a discipline technique

Time-out is a discipline technique that involves placing your child in a very boring place for several minutes following unacceptable behaviours. What time-out really means is: Time-out from any attention. What behaviours should time-outs be used? As a parent myself I use the three categories that were taught to me about time-outs.

1) A child should be placed in a time-out for not following parental directions.

Example: If my child does not follow directions in five seconds I use a time-out. I never give directions that I am not prepared to enforce. I never give my child more than one warning before using a time-out. This is to ensure that my child can learn that I mean business and that she is not going to have five warnings before I enforce the rule or direction that was provided.

2) Dangerous behaviours

I use a time-out if my child places herself in danger or is potentially in danger from her choices or not listening to direction.

3) Hitting and temper tantrums.

As a mom I have come across this a few times where my child has hit some one or thrown herself onto the floor and started screaming. I use a time out immediately so that she can learn that this is unacceptable.

When your child is in a time out make sure you do not use their bedrooms as there is usually many items and toys that can entertain them. I use a red chair when using a time out for my child. I keep her away from the tv and other things that would be entertaining to her. Other parents will use a corner or the kitchen table. If you decide to place your child in a separate room, Make sure that you do not turn off the lights as this can scare the child. The purpose of a time out is to remove the child from attention and not to scare them. When you are going to put a child into a time-out prepare the child by briefly explaining the procedure at the level the child will understand. Explain to your child that you are using a time-out as a form of discipline instead of spanking or yelling and threatening.  Parents should also explain the reason behind the time out.  My child is placed in a quiet time out. I let her know that if the timer will start as soon as she is quiet. I also let her know that the time will start over if she gets off her chair or is noisy. I send my child to a time out immediately after she has done something unacceptable.  I make a point of not nagging or arguing with my child. I do not wait for my child to have a full blown

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