toddler discipline/calm-down spot

Good Morning, Nicholeen!
A couple of questions relating to my 20 month old granddaughter's behavior:
1) Her mom has been pre-teaching her about things that she's not allowed to touch in the house, such as the phone and the washing machine. However, she still touches these things constantly. When she does, mom takes her to the calm-down spot, but often as soon as she gets up, she goes back to touch them again…and again… and again. Is this an appropriate use of a calm-down spot? What do you suggest? Additionally, my granddaughter will not touch "no touch" items when Dad is around, because he has used a wooden spoon once or twice to hit her hand when she did. Mom will not use a wooden spoon or other physical discipline, but, as Dad says, "It works!" (Just so nobody listening will think otherwise, he is a wonderful. loving dad and husband!) In the past, I've heard you say that parents who use TSG will not need to use corporal punishment, as it just won't be necessary. I'd appreciate your comments!
2) She demands her mom's attention by screaming, especially when mom is on the phone (I hear this when I am on other other end!). Mom tries not to spend time on the phone when her daughter is awake, but there are short phone calls that need to be made. How can we teach her not to scream in this situation?