Overview
Overview Time-out means that you remove your child from a stressful situation for a short period of time. It works best when your child is old enough to understand. This usually begins around 3 years of age.
Time-out is not a punishment. It is an opportunity for the child to calm down or regain control of their behaviour. It works best when children understand why it is being used.
When should you use a time-out? Time-out works best when your child is doing something your child knows is not acceptable and won't stop, such as hitting or biting.
Time-out is not effective if it is used too often or if it is used for behaviours that are not within a child's control. For example, time-out is not appropriate for a child who accidentally wets their clothes instead of using the toilet.
How do you give time-outs? Before you start a time-out:
Find a timer to use. Select a place in your home for time-out. It needs to be a place without distractions. Do not use a bedroom. Do not choose a dark, scary, or dangerous place. A chair in the hallway or corner of a room may work best. Practice the time-out procedure with your child when your child is in a good mood. Explain that bad behaviour, such as throwing food or not sharing toys, will result in a time-out. To give a time-out, follow these steps:
Explain why your child is going to time-out. State only once, "Time-out for having a temper tantrum." Direct or take your child to the time-out place. If you need to carry your child, hold your child facing away from you. Set the timer for the time-out period. The rule of thumb is 1 minute for each year of age, with a maximum of 5 minutes for time-out. At the end of time-out, say to your child, "Okay, time-out is over." And let your child know in some way that you love them, such as a hug. While your child is in time-out:
Stay calm, and do not act angry. Find something to do, such as reading a magazine. Don't talk about your child. Related Information
Credits
Current as of: October 24, 2023
Include Images Large Print