This Article Full Text (PDF) Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Services E-mail this article to a friend Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Add to My File Cabinet Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Dell'Aringa, S. Search for Related Content

 Previous Article  |  Next Article 

'Time-out' alternative

Pediatricians can offer an alternative disciplinary method for frustrated parents who find "time-out" ineffective, according to a South Carolina researcher.

The "big hug" involves sitting the child on the parent's lap, facing away with his legs secure between the parent's legs. The parent should hold the child's arms, which are crossed in front of his body, to regain control. The child is restrained until he verbally accepts his time-out and ceases to fight and cry.

Once he is under control, parents can give a gentle pat of endearment followed by a face-to-face hug.

The "big hug" helps parents regain control over oppositional and defiant children 18 months of age and older who exhibit behaviors such as temper tantrums, hitting and biting.

Children learn that:

• parents are in charge;

• you don't get everything you want;

• things go better when you calm down; and

• you talk over issues and give a little to get what you want.