Every parent has heard that consistency is key when it comes to raising an anxiety-free kid. But why? Today, Parents Ask expert Dr. Bonnie Zucker explains the importance of a predictable routine and the effect it has on young children.

Q: Why is consistency so important? At what age should children have "routine schedules"? Why would the lack of a schedule create anxiety?
 
A: Consistency is one of the most beneficial skills of parenting. It is truly a gift to provide a child with a consistent and predictable environment. Starting at birth, children need consistency; for example, parents should be consistently responsive to an infant's need to be fed, held, comforted, changed, etc.  Beginning at four months old, children can benefit from routines, particularly those related to eating and sleeping. A routine schedule becomes particularly important once a child begins school (including pre-school), and a predictable home life will benefit the child greatly. 
 
From an anxiety perspective, consistency and predictability allow children to be more relaxed. A lack of consistency can often make children feel insecure and even chaotic. Ideally, parents should be stable and predictably in the way they act and respond to their child; this consistency will facilitate the child's development of self. Think about it: how can one develop a stable sense of who they are when their environment, and the people in it, are always changing. While some change in routine is normal and healthy, as it helps children be more flexible and adaptable, it is never helpful for parents to be inconsistent in how they treat a child.

For many children, a lack of schedule can create anxiety. Without a predictable routine, it may be harder to master daily tasks, and this will likely lead to stress and anxiety. For example, if homework time is unstructured or at a different place or different time every day, your child will have a harder time establishing good work habits. With consistency and a routine, however, there is a greater likelihood that he will learn how to perform at his best. Moreover, consistency helps children to feel safe in the world.

See Also:

-Children with Regular Sleep Patterns- Smarter At School

-Can Parents Get Separation Anxiety?

-How Can I Help My Son With His Anxiety When We Say Goodbye?

-How Do You Deal with Separation Anxiety?