I find timeouts a very useful tool for situations when a child is not willing or not able to follow instructions, and screaming about it is a very common reaction when it is new. My DD takes HERSELF to time-out now if she's getting out of control. So long as the time out is followed by a re-connection (I say "i put you on the step because..... Why did that happen?" and we talk about it all, apologies are made where appropriate and we cuddle and make-up) i feel it is a loving and useful tool.

Bear in mind that if his mother is bipolar and has been suffering symptomshe may have been growing up around apparent emotional instability as well as verbal ad physical abuse. This little family need help - who is her doctor, who treats her bipolar? Can she get to a triple P course or similar? Is there provision in your area for mothers with mental health problems? Mabe you can help her access the services they both so badly need?

Bx