The Byzantines were known to take their children's phones away. Monsters, the lot of them.

I remember reading Steve Jobs was doing that to his kids. But hey, it’s the golden rule of the trade, don’t get high on your own product.

I read that Steve Ballmer was much more cruel. He forced his kids to use Windows phones.

A week long punishment is pointless. A child's perception of time means a ten minute punishment is as effective (probably more effective) than a week long punishment.

When they’re small, maybe. But once they’re at an age where the device represents a portal to social engagement, I find a complete weekend-and-next social cycle basically approaches infinity in their eyes. A week is usually sufficient, but there’s been times where two is necessary. However, each of my kids differ with effectiveness of different punishment types.

No, even when they're 15.

That shirt ten minute time out tells them that their behaviour is wrong and needs to be fixed. It's tied to the actual behaviour that needs to be fixed. It prevents an argument spanning a week.

It's punishment for a 12 year old not a 2 year old...

My advice holds for anyone up to the age of about 18.

Have you had kids over the age of 2? Because your advice doesn’t hold for anyone over that age.

I don't think it is that simple depending on the age.

I'm willing to bet a 10 year old wouldn't think much of 10 minutes without a phone.