Time out fails.....

Time outs really only work if the person giving the time out truly means it and backs up that time out with actions and words. A simple conversation explaining why the child was put there, the reasons why that behavior was unacceptable and be able to discuss this with the child AFTER he/ she is able to speak calmly and coherently. They also have to know that your actions are going to be consistant EVERY time and that harsher punishment will be doled if the behavior continues. They need to know that the behavior WILL NOT be tolerated and that punishment will ensue.

Time out is a great time for both the offended and the offendee can take a moment to calm down and rationally think about things before coming back to discuss. It never does ANY amount of good when you're both pissed off anyway. The child is pissed because he/ she got caught and got in trouble. The parent is pissed because, well, what the hell was he/ she thinking, thinking that <WHATEVER THE OFFENSE WAS> was a good idea??!?? You taught them better than that, right? Well, it's time to lay down the hammer and make sure that he/ she knows not to EVER do that again.... Right? And once THAT happens, he/ she WON'T ever do that again..... Right?

Yeah, right.....