Consistency Is Key

Do you ever feel like a broken record? I know I do. Some days I repeat myself a lot. There are times I feel like I just need to record messages and play them through a loud speaker for my kids to hear. So why do I do it? Why do I bother? It is because consistency is key to getting our children to do what they are supposed to do. I see behavior changes when I am consistent. It doesn’t happen overnight, but in time, they do modify their behaviors in order to meet the requirements of our household.

Why is the character quality of consistency so important? Consistency is defined as following constantly the same principles, course or form in all circumstances; holding together. If I allow myself to compromise our principles instead of holding my ground, my children will learn to do the same. They need to see me having a consistent attitude and fortitude. I must be able to control myself, so they will learn to do the same.

Children thrive on consistency. They need to be able to depend on us. We need to say what we mean and mean what we say. That is why it’s important to think things through before we spout off at the mouth. Being consistent is especially hard when we have children who can be a little unpredictable, but it is something we must learn. We need to be determined to remain in control of our emotions as we train our children every day.

Our children will learn to predict our actions. If we are inconsistent, they will learn exactly how to get around the rules. They will wait until we are busy or tired, and they will try to slip things by us. They are smart! If we allow them to do this once or twice, they will keep trying to get by with things. If we put a stop to their plans right away, they will learn that mom and dad are not a push over and will stand their ground no matter what is going on.

As a mom, I have failed in this area of consistency so many times that I felt it was a losing battle and I should just throw in the towel, but I can’t do that! I have to teach them that there are consequences to their actions and that they have a mom that will enforce the rules even when she is feeling sick, tired, or busy. They must conclude that I am not going to give up. I am going to follow through. This is the only way we teach them to stay on track. We must be willing to work on being consistent just as they need to work on following the rules.

Today is a good day to start being consistent! Will it be easy? No. Will it be worth it? Yes!!!! Come up with a game plan and stick to it. Make a list of rules and consequences for breaking those rules and stick to it! Don’t give up! I am determined today. Are you?

My name is Betty Daley. I am a wife, mother, and homeschooling teacher. I have been married to my high school sweetheart for 24 years and we have six children. I have been homeschooling for 20 years. Our older three have graduated The Daley Academy, and we continue to homeschool our younger three. We love sharing about our homeschooling adventures. Our family motto is “Do all to the glory of God”. We pray that we can encourage others as we give you a look into our lives. https://letsgetreal2016.blogspot.com/