There’s much debate on how parents should discipline their children, and using “time-outs” is no exception. I personally have read tons of information where people actually say to “never, under any circumstances, use time-outs because they don’t work.” I think it’s dangerous to make a blanket statement regarding any type of discipline as either always effectively working or not working. As a parent, you know that every child is different, and that includes their responses to discipline. A great option to using time-outs is that if used correctly, it sends an immediate message about poor behavior without ever touching your child. Just like any punishment, there are a few things you should implement when using time-outs to make sure your attempt at correcting your child’s behaviors has the best results. Check out some of our tips on how to use time-outs with your children.
1. Stay Consistent
One of hardest things to do as a parent is to consistently tell your child again and again and again to do, or not do something. Depending on our energy level, we can be prone to giving in or giving up when it comes to our children’s demands and behaviors. The number one “must” for implementing time-outs is to be consistent. If you say you’re going to give a time-out if your child doesn’t stop doing something, then do it. If they need more than 1 time-out to get the message, then do it. It doesn’t do any good for to waver in your treatment of poor behavior. Stay consistent in handing out time-outs when they are earned.