hi,

what age would you start using the naughty step? When Abbie does something naughty, and i say no, she either has a tantrum or carries on doing it, i don't want to shout at her...

I dont think they really understand the naughty step untill nearer 3.
Best you can do is say no in a stern voice and distract her attention to something else.

With my step-son we started time out at 3, he would have horriable days at pre-school(hitting kids, saying nasty things to everyone/ His GMA was a teacher so I think thats why) but anyhow by age 3 1/2 it finally clicked..hey Im in trouble dont do it again. When I watch supper nanny they do time out only for the mins that they are old. ie-3 years old =3 mins.

Jack has gone on his "naughty spot" for about 3-4 months now and it really seems to work
I think it depend on the understanding of each child really
go with what you feel is all i can say

I dont use a naughty step as such, but if Charlie is naughty (like the other day she hit me in the face and laughed) The I will pick her up and put her on her chair in the dining room, which is a safe place, and tell her that it was a naughty thing to do, and she is to sit there until she can be a nice girl.
I never leave her very long, ie about a minute, and she often will say sorry when i go to her.
I think its more about calming her down and removing her from the situation.