Time Out

When babies are small, it's actually really helpful for them to have short periods of time to themselves.  When they're fed, clean, and sleepy (though not quite asleep), it can help them fall asleep on their own.  It's often when they begin to find their voices by cooing and such.

As they get older, it's helpful for them to have time to themselves to learn to be independent. Again, not extra long periods of time.... short periods to learn to play on their own.  It's often when they learn to crawl because there's no pressure.  It's a good thing.

Toddlers often need "time outs" as time to take a moment away and be able to function in a less high-stress moment.  If they're stressed over not being able to do something on their own, that time out can give them a moment to relax before trying again.   If they're frustrated at having to share, that time out can give them a moment to relax and regroup.

As kids get into school age, they often begin to need that independent "play" time to take a break from school stress.  While they love being with their friends, they need that time to relax and regroup.  It's important in their stress management and you can definitely tell the difference in kids that are rushed too much and don't get this time.

As teenagers, the independent time becomes more plentiful.  They don't want to be around people.  They just want to be locked in their rooms acting a fool....and that's okay.  That "time out" is important to them developmentally, as long as they're balancing it out.

As adults, especially as parents, we tend to shove "time outs" aside.  We tend to think that it is unimportant and unacceptable.  We have too much to accomplish.  We have to put our kids first...and yes, that's totally true.  However, time outs are still a necessary part of life.  Maybe it's to do a workout.  Maybe it's ten minutes to read the paper and drink coffee before the kids get up.  Maybe it's something else.  The point is that it's important to take that time to yourself .  It's still just as important to your sanity and development now.  In fact, it might be even more so.

Time outs may change with age but they are always a necessary part of life.  Are you taking enough moments?