Whether you are a foster parent or raising your biological children, consistency in parenting pays off. By doing the same thing over and over again, you create a rhythm which helps build trust. It doesn’t happen overnight, but results are achieved over time.

Mike Berry is a foster parent who recently explored this topic on his Confessions of a Parent blog. He concluded that the top benefits of consistency are that it:

1. Creates a road map
2. Helps calm fear and anxiety
3. Reassures

Children in foster care have likely been removed from an environment full of inconsistency and lacking direction. When a child is placed in your care, be vocal with them. Say what you are going to do and follow through. Reassure them that you are on their side to keep them safe, and they will learn to trust you.

Click here to view the entire blog post, or visit Mike Berry’s website here.