Time-Out
Guidelines
for time-out:Time-out is a type of discipline that is used to stop a child
from performing a bad behavior "isolating" the child for a period of
time. Time-out helps establish that the parent is in charge, and allows the
child to think about what he/she has done. Time-outs are useful for
aggressive and harmful behaviors in toddlers and preschool-aged
children.
Where
should a time-out occur?The place for time-out to occur should be chosen ahead of
time, not at the time of the behavior. The following are some examples
of places for time-out:
-
crib
or play pen
-
chairs
or corners of the room
-
a
designated room
How
long should a time-out last?
-
A
general guideline is one minute for each year of the child's age.
For example, 3-year-olds get 3 minutes of time-out.
-
A
maximum
length of time for time-out should be no more than 5 minutes.
Placing
your child in time-out:
-
The
reason the child is being sent to time-out should be explained to
him/her in very clear statements.
-
If
the child does not go to time-out on his/her own, lead him/her
there.
-
Do
not spank or yell on the way to time-out.
Stopping
time-out:
-
As
a parent, you decide when time-out is over, not the child. If the child
"escapes"
during time-out, restart the clock.
-
Tell
your child time-out is over and allow him/her to resume normal activities.
- Treat the child normally after time-out. Do not
lecture again on the behavior.
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