Successful Time-Out Tactics

Q: When I put my child in her "time-out chair" should I let her quietly look at a book or play with a toy, or should she really be left with nothing to do but stare at the wall?

A: The purpose of the time-out chair is as a punishment, not as a different place to play or be entertained. So she should not be allowed to do anything but be bored. Furthermore, don't let her out of the time-out chair until you are well convinced that the period has been long enough for her to experience some discomfort. That's what the time-out chair is supposed to be all about. How long depends upon the child, but as a rule of thumb, you might say to have her stay one minute longer than they feel she can tolerate.

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