This episode explores the importance of finding a balance between predictability and surprise in our lives. Drawing parallels between storytelling and real life, Michael emphasises the need for unpredictability in books and films to keep us engaged and captivated. However, in our own lives, we crave a certain level of predictability and stability to feel in control. The episode delves into the significance of predictability in early childhood development, highlighting how consistent and loving interactions from parents shape a child's brain and foster healthy attachments. Michael also discusses the impact of inconsistent parenting and the importance of positive eye contact in a child's perception of themselves and the world. 

Predictability is important in both storytelling and real life. In books and movies, predictability can lead to boredom, while in real life, a balance between predictability and surprise is desired.
Predictable care is crucial for the healthy development of babies and young children. Consistent and repetitive acts of care, such as responding to their cries and providing soothing actions, help them feel loved, valued, and secure.
Inconsistent parenting can have negative effects on a child's self-esteem and ability to trust. If a parent fails to provide predictable care, the child may feel abandoned, rejected, and insignificant, impacting their overall well-being.
Positive eye contact and consistent nurturing behaviours from parents shape a child's brain development and their ability to feel love and learn empathy. Parents play a critical role in determining a child's fundamental views about themselves and the world.
Predictability is also important in adult life. Uncertainty and unpredictability can lead to hesitation and a lack of progress. To achieve success, individuals need to be consistent and predictable in their actions and behaviours, taking responsibility for their own endeavours.

BEST MOMENTS
"When reading a book or watching a film, one of the last things you want to experience is predictability since that will pretty much guarantee you feeling bored or sending you to sleep." - Host (23 words)
"Babies who receive appropriate care learn over a period of time that when they cry or are distressed that their parent, who is well attuned to their needs and feelings, will hear their cries and appear to provide actions designed to soothe their upset." - Interviewee (42 words)
"It affects how their brain develops, impacting on how they begin to feel, think and learn to make sense of their world." - Interviewee (24 words)
"Parents, on the other hand, who are eager to offer their infants the best possible care will do all they can to provide them with comfort and reassurance that they are loved and wanted and belong to them." - Interviewee (41 words)
"The only thing you can be certain of, that's absolutely guaranteed, is that you cannot be successful if you fail to start it." - Host (24 words)
[00:02:23] Development of healthy attachments.
[00:07:48] Positive eye contact and comfort.
[00:08:42] Positive predictability in parenting.
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Michael Watson is a qualified social worker and author with over thirty years of experience working with children and families. As an expert in family court, Michael is in a key position to assist, advise, and coach parents through their private law family proceedings and provide them with the information and skills to represent themselves successfully in court. His two books, ‘How to Represent Yourself in Family Court’, and ‘FAMILY COURT: Giving Evidence In Family Court’, provide parents with a clearer understanding of family court proceedings, legislation, and parenting skills.