A “time-out” primer for grandparents dealing with grandchildren and discipline

Grandparents who find themselves having custody of their grandchildren, or just spending a great deal of time with them during visitation, may wonder about discipline techniques. Children who are used to “time-outs” may stump grandparents raised many years ago in entirely different circumstances.

Time-outs can effectively stop behaviors that are especially hard to discipline. It can also serve as disciplinary action for a particularly aggressive or impulsive grandkid! These discipline problems can include everything from a temper tantrum to cursing to  name-calling to spitting to acting up and  to biting.

If your grandchild is very angry or actually having a tantrum, time-outs can be a very effective form of discipline. They are a “stop” behavior discipline rather than a “start” behavior discipline. They also serve to save your sanity from time-to-time.

Start the  time-out before you lose your temper. It adds effectiveness to your discipline since the child has more confidence in your consistency.

It is best if all adults and older siblings follow the same rules to use this form of discipline. This includes parents, grandparents and caregivers.

Time out discipline tips include:

• Don’t bargain, discuss or argue with children.
• Use one minute of time-out for each year of age.
• Ignore all yelling, sarcastic remarks, and screaming while time-out proceeds. You must even ignore cursing.
• Use a timer. Set the timer only when the child is quiet, i.e., not screaming, cursing, banging around,  or using disrespectful language.
• After the time is over, open the door and permit the child to leave. There should be no further explanation, warning, or apology.