Prepare the child
Find a quiet and proper time to discuss time out policy as it applies to your family or your classroom: which problem behaviours time out will be used for, and how long time out will last.
Choose the right place
You don’t have to use the same location every time, but it should be a spot removed from activities. The advise of experts is to avoid toys and distractions in close proximity to the child. Make sure that time out is boring. Ensure the area is safe and there is no potential danger to the child. Choose a location that is scare-free. You want to calm the child rather than frighten him. Make sure you can see him at all times.
Time the time out
Use a timer to track the number of minutes the child is in time out. Prevailing wisdom supports the practice of one minute of time out for each year of the child's life.
Remain Calm
Stay calm, and use a calm voice. The child is more likely to settle down if you are not agitated. Let the him know by your demeanor that time out is for quietly reflecting on the behaviour in question.
Follow up
Once the timer rings and time out is over, reinforce the lesson by discussing the behaviour with the child. Make sure you focus on the behaviour and not the child. For example, say "be kind to your classmate" rather than "you were a bad boy."
Praise the child
Use positive reinforcement by praising the child when he is behaving well.
