Tell your child where time-outs will happen.Make sure your child knows what behavior leads to a time-out.Practice time-out with your child when you are both in a good mood.Explain time-out or show it to your child in a way she can understand.Praise the next good thing your child does.Ĭlick here for more information about the Steps for Using Time-out Time-Out Tips.After the child has finished picking up her toys, the parent says, “Thanks for listening and putting your toys away.” Please put your toys away.” (Parent pauses for a few seconds and child continues to play.) The parent says to her daughter, “If you don’t put away your toys, you will have to go to time-out.” (This is the time-out warning.) The parent pauses for a few more seconds to allow the child time to follow directions. See the example below when a parent decides to use a time-out warning.Įxample 1: “It’s almost time for dinner. State this warning in a neutral tone and follow through with the time-out every time if your child does not do as you directed. The time-out warning should be stated clearly, simply, and as a statement (not as a question). When your child doesn’t follow your directions give a time-out warning. If you don’t use a chair, you can use a blanket, cloth napkin, small mat, or designated space on the floor.Avoid chairs that rock, chairs that are very soft, or chairs with pictures and graphics. Use a sturdy adult-sized chair, like a wooden kitchen chair.If the bedroom is used, remove all of the things your child might enjoy. The bedroom may work for time-out if you cannot get your child to stay in the time-out space. The end of a hallway is usually away from people and things your child likes. Away from toys, people, windows, TVs, radios, and anything else your child likes.Your child does not follow your direction and you have given a warning.Your child does something harmful, like hurting others.There are 4 times when time-out may be a good choice:

For toddlers and preschoolers, try distraction and redirection first. Time-out is not used for all misbehaviors. She cannot interact with her parents or anyone else. She does not get any attention in time-out. Your child is away from all things that are fun. Time-out is when your child is removed from where the misbehavior happened. What is Time-Out? When should it be used?

Time-outs last between 2 and 5 minutes for toddlers and preschoolers.

The location should be away from TV, games, toys, or other things your child likes.

Select a time-out location where your child cannot get attention from anyone.

Follow the 5 steps for time-out each time you use it.

Use other types of consequences for other problem behaviors. Use time-out if your child does something dangerous or harmful, fails to follow a direction, or breaks a family rule.

Limit time-outs with toddlers and preschoolers.

Practice time-out with your child so she knows how it will work. Tell your child which behaviors will lead to time-out, where time-outs will happen, and how time-out will be used.

Explain time-out to your child before using it.

The Time-Out Chair and Other Alternatives.

What is Time-Out? When should it be used?.

A fun time out