
However, when you discipline a toddler, he is statistically quite likely to repeat his bad behaviour within two hours, and even more likely to do the same thing again that day. He never learns! I put him on the Naughty Step, but he repeats the same behaviour the next day! Consistency is the key to successful discipline. Nevertheless, every child (and every parent) is different, and we did come across some recurring issues with the Naughty Step technique, which we've addressed here. Many stories we've received from parents show how this method of Time Out has transformed children’s behaviour and given exhausted parents a strategy for household peace. How does the naughty step work in real life? Parent positively, and use a Reward Chart to reinforce spontaneous and continual good behaviour in your child.

Troubleshooting behavioural issues using the Naughty Step works best when you also make a fuss of what your child does right. Once disciplined, however, it is especially important to find out why your child behaved in a way which was out of character, as understanding their actions will help you to prevent it occurring again.

If behaviour is really out of control, if the Naughty Step has become more of an attention-seeking ploy, or if older children do something they really shouldn’t have done, think about some kind of toy confiscation punishment. They can be asked to go there when they’re angry to give them time and physical space to think things over. Older children will outgrow the Naughty Step, so try to cultivate in them a sense of responsibility for their actions by creating a reflection room or chill-out zone. But don’t forget the kiss and cuddle at the end!
Ask them to apologise, and when they do, praise them warmly with a kiss and a cuddle.

TIME OUT CHAIR IDEAS TV
Staying calm and in control while your child learns their boundaries is key - but you've got to be consistent! The Naughty Step was used to great effect on the Supernanny TV show. The Naughty Step - what is it and how does it work?
