CHILDREN AND LIES
Lately I notice that my child is lying. What could be happening and what should I do about it?
Remember that all children lie from time to time. However, most of the time, young children do not perceive lying as something bad or immoral.
Instead, they report a reconstructed form of truth or use a convenient inaccuracy to get what they want, such as getting their parents' attention. It is important to know that the developmental stage of each child usually defines the motivations that lead them to lie. How can you as a parent handle the situation?
- Explain to your child that it is important to always tell the truth. You can use a fairy tale to start the conversation with him.
- Help him understand the difference between truth and lies and the consequences they have in his daily life
- Talk to him when he tells a lie, listening carefully to his explanation
-His honesty is rewarded
- Trust him so he doesn't have to apologize all the time. It is good for him to know that he can talk to you about anything that is happening to him.
- Don't panic when the child lies. Talk to him calmly.
- A cute lie can be treated with humor
- Avoid yelling, punishments and characterizations (example "you're a liar")
- Set the right example for him by being honest with him. Parents are role models for all children.
The more meaningful the parents' relationship with their children and the more appropriate the parental intervention, the easier it will be to limit the children's tendency to lie. However, don't forget to smile. Sometimes that's all it takes.
Do not forget to smile even faking
Anesiadou Kassiani, nursery teacher
Kokkinou Sofia, kindergarten teacher
