Time-out can be an effective method to guide children’s behavior and teach them how to cooperate. It is administered by placing a child in a dull area of the home, apart from all activity. Time-out is used immediately following the unwanted behavior, every time it occurs. Following the completion of the time-out, talk with your child about the reason for the time-out and what other options there were instead of the unwanted behavior. There are three questions you need to address before beginning the process:

What is the specific behavior that I want to change?
Target one behavior at a time and be specific.

Where is our designated time-out space?
It should not be someplace frightening. The object is boredom, not fear.

What is the appropriate time for the behavior in time-out?
Approximately one minute per year of age. Set a timer after the child is in place and quiet.

After you have answered the above questions, use this checklist to help you make the most effective use of the time-out method. Remember to:

Observe the child exhibiting any of the target misbehavior.

Immediately instruct the child to stop the misbehavior.

Warn your child that if he does not listen to your command to stop the misbehavior, he would have to go to time-out.

Wait five seconds and if your child does not comply, send her to time-out without any lecturing or scolding.

Remain firm. Tell your child there will be additional discipline (removal of other privileges such as television time, play time, favorite toy, etc.) if he refuses to stay in time-out.

Require your child to stay in time-out for the entire length of the time that you stated in the beginning (no time off for good behavior, no interruptions for drinks, etc.).

Remind your child after the time-out is completed that she must comply with the original instruction that led to the time-out in the first place.

Back up your spouse in enforcing a time-out if you are nearby.

Use a time-out later in the day if the misbehavior occurs again. (The time should be increased incrementally when repeated in a given day).

Positively reinforce your child by praising or rewarding him when you see appropriate behaviors on your target-behavior list.

Remember that time-out is not a punishment, but a time to redirect a child’s thoughts and behaviors. After the time is up, make time to talk with your child and review why she is there, what behavior was not acceptable and how to handle the situation in the future. Most of all, be consistent, and if the situation arises again, follow through with the time-out consequence. When your child handles the situation in a positive manner, be sure to praise her for the ability to solve the problem without adult intervention. Many times, encouraging and reinforcing the good behavior will be more effective than applying the time-out or other restrictions.

Reff: Melinda J. Hill, Ohio State University Cooperative Extension