Almost all parents and teachers have heard the expression "Time Out" and most eventually use it as a way of bringing their child under control at times when they are misbehaving. Time Out can be a positive technique as long as parents understand it and do not misapply it to a child younger than three. Time Out can be used effectively with children from the ages of three to twelve and it should always be considered a calming technique and not a punishment. It really is just a simple method of settling a child down and giving them a brief period of "cooling off."

This technique needs to be introduced as a concept first for a child so they have an understanding of it. If the child does not understand, or is not old enough to understand the concept of a "cooling off period," then the technique will not work successfully. Time Out should be explained to children at a time when things are under control and everyone is happy. The parent can say something like, "I know you are happy now but you need to know that from now on whenever you misbehave that you are old enough for Time Out." Usually misbehavior occurs when small groups of children play together. Minor squabbles can erupt and children can become unreasonable. The parent or teacher can explain that whenever this happens in the future that the children will be separated for a short period of time until things settle down and they are ready to be friends again. Each child can be assigned a special place in the home or classroom that is their Time Out location.