Consistent is defined as “acting or done in the same way over time, especially as to be fair or accurate”.

The need to be the same way with your kids all the time is extremely important. I don’t mean you have to run around like a robot operating on one program, but you have to maintain your routines. You can’t keep switching up on them because it will only confuse them. So, if you say dinner is at 7pm, no electronics after 9pm, or bedtime is at 10pm, you need to keep it that way. I know sometimes there are things out of your control that can change it, but don’t deviate on purpose. Children need structure as well as rules. So, changing up normal routines can cause major disruptions. They may not like it, but they look to us for structure and guidance. Developing a structure and practicing routines shows consistency. It is so much easier to follow the rules if you already know what is expected. Even as the parent, having the routines is crucial. Things move quickly and obstacles are at every turn. Therefore, if we don’t have to guess and figure things out at every second we can make it over those obstacles.

A routine can be really simple. For instance, my kids have a regular Wednesday night activity. I usually dropped them off at the front door and then go and park. At the end of the activity, they know where to find me on the parking lot, because I usually park in the same area every week. This eliminates me from having to go inside to get them and stops them from having to run all over the parking lot looking for me. The routine helps us be consistent. The same is true when picking them both up from school. I have a designated area to park at both schools so they know where to find me. Dismissal can be chaotic, so them not having to run around to look for me makes it simple.

When you are consistent, children know what is expected of them. They will already know what the consequence is for breaking rules. They will already know when certain things need to be done. They will already know how they are supposed to act in any situation. And isn’t this what we really desire? We are giving our kids the tools needed to be responsible citizens.