Consistency is one of the keys to being a successful parent because children feel secure when they understand the boundaries that shape their lives. As parents, we have a responsibility to wisely guide our children while teaching them to explore the world around them so that they can make their own wise decisions.
Consistency With The Other Parent
Are you on the same page with the father or mother of your children? One of the fastest ways to tear down the foundation that your children so desperately need is to be at odds with your spouse. I highly recommend that you have some tough discussions today so that you can be united in your parenting journey.
You need to be agreement on how to answer the following questions.
- What core values will you teach and celebrate?
- What worldview governs how your children are raised (religious or non-religious)?
- How will disobedience be disciplined?
- How quickly do you discipline?
- What forms of discipline are acceptable?
- How much freedom will the child be given as a toddler, young child, teen, etc?
- How will the child be educated?
- Will the child be expected to do chores?
And the list goes on and on. My point is that two parents must work together to determine their parenting styles, goals, and dreams. One of the hardest things to watch as a parent is seeing two parents who are not on the same page. Consistency between parents allows a child to know and understand the framework that guides their life which in turn creates stability.
Consistency With Yourself
Once you have determined your parenting framework as a couple, you need to make an individual commitment to work out those plans in the lives of your children.
It is so easy to make excuses for not being consistent with your children. Some reasons may include ...
- you are tired and stressed
- you don't want to look like the "bad guy"
- you are still not on the same page with the other parent
Don't sabotage the efforts of your spouse as you parent your children. Make sure that you come to a compromise that you can both live out as parents.
Don't let your worries prevent your children from having the stability and structure that they need.
Final Thoughts
Being a parent is a challenging and rewarding responsibility. As parents, we need to protect our children and help them feel secure. We are not parenting just for the rewards of the present, but also in preparation for helping our children become responsible and independent adults.
I would love to hear from you.
- Do you and the father or mother of your children agree on how to raise your kids?
- What challenges do you face in being consistent as a parent?
- If you are a parent, what advice would you give to people who want to have children?
Leave your comments below.
@SumatraNate
Image Source: https://pixabay.com/en/family-parenting-together-people-1784371/