Creative Alternatives to Time-Out for Toddlers and Preschoolers

This course applies to toddlers and preschoolers.

This course is designed for early childhood educators working with toddlers and preschoolers in center based or home based settings. It is also appropriate for program administrators seeking to support staff in implementing positive guidance practices.

In this practical and inspiring course, you will discover why traditional time out misses the mark and how positive, connection based strategies build self regulation and cooperation. You will learn to create nurturing environments, co regulate emotions and use “time in,” reset spaces and other creative alternatives that respect toddlers’ and preschoolers’ developmental needs.

This course provides hands on tools, downloadable handouts and suggested apps to help teachers coach emotional literacy and partner with families. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the skills and confidence to guide challenging behaviors while strengthening relationships.

Learning outcomes

After completing this course you will be able to:

•  Describe the potential consequences of traditional timeout
•  Recognize that challenging behaviors communicate underlying emotions and needs
•  Identify developmentally appropriate alternatives to time-out
•  Explain how preventive measures support children’s developing ability to manage their own emotions and behavior

Acceptance information (click to view)

Topics covered

• Reasons for shifting away from traditional time-out
• Common challenging behaviors and children’s underlying needs
• Intense or persistent behaviors
• Punitive discipline vs. positive guidance approaches
• Alternatives to time-out
• Time-in strategies
• Redirection techniques
• Trauma-sensitive calming spaces
• Sensory and repetitive activities (indoor & outdoor)
• Logical consequences
• Conflict resolution skills
• Preventive strategies to reduce challenging behavior
• Building positive relationships
• Modeling appropriate behaviors
• Catching children engaging in positive behaviors
• Providing real choices
• Establishing predictable schedules and routines
• Creating supportive transitions (including musical transitions)
• Establishing clear classroom rules
• Preparing environments proactively
• Working with families
• Consistency between home and school guidance
• Practical family engagement tools (notes, apps, guides)
• Teaching baby signs and calming activities
• Practical calming techniques (deep breathing, yoga, cozy corners)
• Self-care and educator strategies
• Maintaining emotional well-being for educators and children