Time-Out Techniques for Disciplining Children

When trying to discipline your kid, time-out techniques are more effective than other methods. Get your child acquainted to discipline with these effective time out techniques.The word discipline has different perspectives. In simple words, it means to impart knowledge and skill. When trying to discipline children you need to teach them in the best possible way. Most of you will equate it with punishment and control. Parents are left confused about the effective ways to instill self control in kids and set limits for them as well.If your toddler’s usual reaction to any of your instruction is ‘no’, do not think that you are alone. As a toddler, the child starts understanding his or her limits and power and he or she will test yours at times. There are some time-out techniques that are one of the most effective ways of helping your child understand the difference between positive and negative behaviour. In this articleWhat is Time-Out Technique?Benefits of TimeOut TechniqueUnderstand the Principles of TimeOut TechniqueWeighup the Readiness of your ChildRemove DistractionsKeep an Eye on HimUse a TimerWhat is Time-Out Technique?Time out technique means sending your child to a place that is aside from interesting activities and people for a period of time. It can be a room, a chair or a corner. But make sure that the place is safe for the child and you do not ignore him or her completely. This technique is very helpful especially when you want to help your child know what behaviours are unacceptable. Although, this technique works with almost every child, there are children who demand special level of behaviour management skill.Usually, children whose behaviour is more challenging - having high level of activity and intensity and relatively low sensitivity to punishments and rewards, make all types of discipline less or even non effective. So, even though you find that time-out did not work some time, you should continue with that, while handling things patiently.Benefits of Time-Out TechniqueThe best thing about the time-out technique is that it is non-hurtful. No matter how angry or disagreed you are with your child’s behaviour or activity, you will not hurt him or her. On the other hand smacking or other hurtful punishments usually bring out more negative feelings in the child. Negative emotions like anger, shame and fear get stronger and influence the way of thinking of the child. This, sometimes, has its effect on the child’s entire life. Time-out is unpleasant, yet non-violent and does not overwhelm children which in turn hamper real learning.Understand the Principles of Time-Out TechniqueIt is important to learn the principles of this technique so that you fit it in your style and need.Remember, time-out means you do not have to pay attention when you use time-out technique. Do not forget that paying attention becomes a form of reward in such situation. Your child will repeat the same behaviour instead of decreasing it in future.Time-out technique will work only when you spend a lot of time with your kid and involve yourself in his or her activities a lot. Only then your child will feel the time-out moment.It is better to avoid talking to your child or even looking at him or her during the time-out period. If he or she slips out and tries to run away, make it a point that you do not ignore. Reset the timer and make him or her sit for the same time period that was fixed.Make the Technique SuccessfulHere are how you can make the time-out technique work.Weigh-up the Readiness of your ChildA 14 months old child will not understand or have any effect of time-out, but 3 years old will have. So, analyzing your child’s ability is the most important thing before you make use of the time-out technique.Remove DistractionsChoose a place that is free of any possibility of engaging your child.Keep an Eye on HimIsolating a toddler can have some safety issues also. Be careful.Use a TimerThe exact time of the time-out is important.Once the time is up, give him or her suggestions on ways how he or she can stay away from this irritating condition. This technique will help the child realize and reflect on what he or she has done. Teaching children about the right behaviour during specific situations is a tough job. You need to have patience and with perseverance you will definitely see results.How to discipline small children? What is time-out technique? How does time-out technique help teach discipline to kids? Discuss here.