Based on the theme of exasperated posts I have seen this morning it looks like it was a tough parenting weekend for a lot of people. Maybe now is a good time to review the rules for a productive, successful Time Out.
Time Outs can be used very effectively in your home. First make sure the house rules are clear. You can post them on the fridge or elsewhere or review them verbally with your children every so often. Clear, consistent rules are the most effective way to teach children. If your child breaks a rule (We do not talk back, We listen to our parents. etc) then they should be placed in a safe, assigned “time out” space (a chair, the bottom step, etc).
1) Place child in time out location for a period of 2-10 minutes in length. Age is a good indicator.
2) Explain time out rules to child: “You are in a time out for 4 minutes because you broke a house rule and you hit your sister, we do not hit. You are to sit quietly in this spot until the buzzer rings”. Each escape attempt resets the timer.
3) When buzzer rings the child is then allowed to get up and should apologize to you or to his/her sister. No hugs, kisses or other “lovies” should be given at this time as it may inadvertently reinforce their attempts at getting a time out for the sole purpose of receiving affection from Mom or Dad (kids are wicked smart!).
4) Use your technique CONSISTENTLY (I cannot say this word enough – it is the basis of patient parenting. If you are inconsistent your child will become confused and/or test the boundaries even more). Both parents must use the same technique.
Let me know if you have questions. Good Luck! 
Patient Parenting 101 
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