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Is your toddler acting out? You can help regain control with a little "time out".
Experts agree that all children need limits including young toddlers. Limits help children feel safe and learn appropriate behavior for their age. Examples of unacceptable toddler behavior might include hitting another child or running across a busy street. One way to help a child take the time to think about their behavior or to simply cool down emotionally is through "time out".
Director of the Parent Education and Resource Center, Sara Dimerman says that time out shouldn't be used as a form of punishment such as a type of toddler solitary confinement. "Time out is more of a consequence, as a way of telling the child that because they are unable to act appropriately they need to stay someplace safe until they can talk about it calmly and logically."
The real purpose of time out is to give a child a tool for managing their emotions. This is done by having the child go to their bedroom, or another quiet spot in the house to calm down. It's often a good idea to let them color, or play with toys, or comfort themselves with a favorite blanket or teddy. This empowers a child by showing them that they can remove themselves from upsetting situations, and deal with their emotions and behavior in an appropriate manner. Dr. T. Berry Brazelton, renowned pediatrician and author of many parenting books including "Touchpoints" explains that "time out serves a purpose. It gives both of you a chance to cool off, and get back together."
Adapted from The Parent Report Radio Show. Any advice or information contained herein should never be a substitute for professional and/or medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. For more information please review Terms of Service.
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