Consistency is key in disciplining children from "summary" of Have a New Kid by Friday by Dr. Kevin Leman
Consistency is the name of the game when it comes to disciplining children. Kids are smart, they can pick up on inconsistencies in your behavior quicker than you think. If you let something slide one day and then come down hard on them for the same thing the next day, they're going to be confused. They won't know what to expect from you, and that's not a good place to be in as a parent.
When you're consistent in your discipline, you're sending a clear message to your children. They know what the boundaries are, and they know what the consequences will be if they step out of line. This sense of predictability is actually comforting to kids. It lets them know that you're in control, that you mean what you say, and that you're looking out for their best interests.
Inconsistency, on the other hand, breeds chaos. It creates an atmosphere of uncertainty and anxiety. Your kids won't know how to behave because they won't know which version of you they're dealing with on any given day. This can lead to acting out, defiance, and all sorts of behavioral issues that you'd rather avoid.
So, how do you stay consistent in your discipline? It's all about setting clear expectations and sticking to them. Make sure your children know the rules and consequences ahead of time. Be firm but fair in enforcing those rules. And most importantly, follow through every single time. Don't let your kids manipulate you or wear you down. Stay strong, stay consistent, and you'll see a real difference in their behavior.
Remember, consistency is not about being rigid or inflexible. It's about being reliable and trustworthy. Your kids need to know that you're someone they can count on, someone who will always have their back. So, take a deep breath, stay calm, and stay the course. Your consistency will pay off in the long run, and you'll have a happier, more well-behaved child to show for it.
