Ep 214: Consistency is a Myth

In this episode, Lewis and Wem dig deep into the concept of consistency—a term often upheld as sacred in education and parenting, but is it all it’s cracked up to be? They explore the tension between consistency of routine vs consistency of relationship, how being overly consistent can lead to masking (for both adults and children), and why the pressure to deliver the same experience every time is unrealistic—and possibly unhelpful. From donkeys at the sanctuary to dopamine in disrupted routines, this is a wide-ranging, honest conversation about autonomy, vulnerability, and the stories we tell ourselves about being “good” educators. Whether you’re new to Forest School or 10 years in, this one might just shift how you think about planning, presence, and being truly learner-centred. 🧭 Topics Covered: Consistency of output vs consistency of intention How routine can become oppressive The moral undertones of “being consistent” Attachment, co-regulation & modelling emotional honesty Why inconsistency can be a gift Cultural pressures to be habit-forming machines How we frame expectations for ourselves and our learners Soft skills, autonomy, and agency in outdoor education Real talk about what consistency demands in unpaid labour 🔗 Listen Here: 🌲 Spotify → Forest School Podcast on Spotify 🍏 Apple → Forest School Podcast on Apple 🌐 Web → www.forestschoolpodcast.com 📺 YouTube → Watch the episode on YouTube 📬 Get In Touch: 💬 Instagram: @forestschoolpodcast 📧 Email: [email protected] 📌 Tags & Keywords: #forestschool #outdooreducation #childledlearning #consistencyvsintention #processoverproduct #relationshipfirst #softskills #emotionalintelligence #naturebasedlearning #educationphilosophy #forestschoolleaders #neurodiversityaffirming #coachingnotcompliance #autonomyineducation #honestteaching #vulnerabilityineducation