There are three foundational secrets to parenting. While there are many specifics things that differ from parent to parent, these three concepts are a constant with any child.

In the past few posts we’ve covered:

Be considerate
Be firm

However, the last secret is what ties all of these together.

3. We need to be consistent

As with the first two, this is an obvious call out. Nobody likes an inconsistent person. We all crave those people who mean what they say, and don’t change every time we interact with them.

However, with parenting we are often inconsistent out of good intentions.

It can be appealing to try out different approaches or ideas to see if one suits your child better than the last.

However, it is crucial we establish habitual practices around our discipline and parenting. These consistent practices are actually what allow pathways in the brain to be created through regularity of use. This habit development is more beneficial for your child than trying to find some technique that might be slightly more suited to them.

When we practice consistency in our discipline, we help the child’s brain develop properly. This lets them see their world consistently and work towards developing virtue. Again, a deeper need than the immediate emotional response.

Regardless of what form of discipline or parenting technique you choose, these three keys will unlock it’s potential for your child:

Be considerate
Be firm
Be consistent

Parenting is never easy, and some children will provide more challenges than others. However, I promise that if you stay strong in those foundational concepts, your child’s reception to your parenting will improve dramatically.