For additional information contact Minnesota Extension Service.
Consistency is a key word when guiding the behavior of young children.
When children are learning what their parents will or will not allow them to do, they will test this parental authority over and over again to find out if parents really mean what they say. Children must learn that they will be disciplined promptly when they attempt to do anything that will bring physical harm to others or themselves such as running into the street or poking metal objects into an electrical outlet. Parents may discipline in a consistent manner at home, but neglect to do so when embarrassed by their child's unacceptable behavior in a public place. The child then learns that he or she must mind at home but won't have to in a store, park, or other public setting.