This strategy is very similar to time-away, and it can also be effective with older school-age children.
A break is not meant to be a punishment. Rather, it is meant to be a time for children to calm down when they are angry or frustrated.
It is very important for you to remain calm when you tell a child to take a break. Call a break when you notice the child needs it, and not out of your own anger or frustration.
When used correctly, many children feel the benefits of taking a break and may take one on their own when they feel they are losing self-control.
In order for a break to be effective, you must explain how it works when children are calm. This way, when you call or suggest a break, the child knows exactly what to do.