How to be a Successful Parent

Imagine hearing this thought of a child, "I'm confused when you're unpredictable."

In discipline, children become confused when they hear a rule that is unenforced or if Mom says one thing and Dad says the opposite. They get mixed messages if something they do brings laughter one day and scolding the next day.

Kids need adults who say what they mean and mean what they say. They need loving adults who respond to them consistently, using the same words, the same expectations, and the same consequences.

Synonyms for dependable include always there, constant, faithful, loyal, responsible, secure, stable, steadfast, steady, trustworthy, unfailing. How do these words apply to your daily discipline?