Time Outs For Everyone!

Dinner was in the oven - a delicious-smelling chicken scampi recipe just begging for the rice that I *actually* remembered to start on time, for once in my life. Mikayla and Isaac had been looking at books for awhile, and playing Doctor, which constitutes them taking turns lying across two toddler chairs while the other gives them a "shot" using whatever toy happens to be nearby. Mikayla gave Isaac a shot today alternately using a diaper cover, a book, and a necklace. When it's Isaac's turn to lie down,  he sort of bends over the chairs and puts his head down, looking for all the world like he's assuming the position for corporal punishment.

But this isn't about that.

Mikayla and Isaac got bored with their repertoire of activities, so they approached me carrying all of the DVDs. She bombarded me with the repeated whiny, "Can we watch this one before dee-ner? Can we watch this one please?" I had told her no several times when it occurred to me that she was still whining, which is a disciplinable offense. 

I told Mikayla that if she kept whining, she would have to go in time-out. She asked, "What's time out?" I did not have my answer prepared ahead of time, but thinking quickly, I explained something to the effect that she would have to go sit by herself for a few minutes, not doing anything, and it would help her learn to obey.

She happily disappeared in the direction of the office. When I asked what she was doing, she said excitedly, "Can I go to time out in here?? Can I sit by myself in the office? Can I have time out now?"  Which, actually, yes, that is where the time-out chair will probably be when we use it. 

Moms, how did you introduce the concept of a time-out to your children? I clearly need a few pointers.