How to Stop a Child From Lying

Whether it's a little white lie or a total whopper, it's unnerving when your child tells a lie. After all, it usually indicates that she's uncomfortable in telling the truth for some reason. That's why it's as important to focus on the reason for the lie as it is the lie itself. By helping your child to understand that honesty is always the best policy, you can nip the issue in the bud before it becomes a big problem.

Instructions

    • 1

      Ask questions to find out the reason for the lie. If the lie is unbelievable and obvious, let your child know that you know she's not telling the truth and find out why she's lying, suggests research psychologist Peggy Drexler in an article for Psychology Today. If your child lies about taking cookies, for instance, you could try "I know that your little brother didn't take the cookies. Are you worried that you'll get into trouble?"

    • 2

      Explain why the lie doesn't help her situation, suggests psychologist Jeffrey Bernstein in another Psychology Today article. To stop lying, your child should understand that not telling the truth can actually be a detriment, rather than a help. Try "When you tell me lies about breaking the rules, it only makes me more upset."

    • 3

      Give your child a chance to come clean without trying to "catch" her in a lie. Instead of asking questions for which you already know the answers, let her know that she can 'fess up and tell you the real story without you getting upset. Make sure you keep an even tone and avoid using labels like "liar," warns the SuperNanny.co.uk website. This can frighten your child and lead to more lies to cover up the first.

    • 4

      Praise your child when she tells the truth. Be specific, like saying "Thanks for telling me the truth. I know it was hard, but I'm happy when you're honest with me." You can levy a consequence, but make sure it fits the crime -- no dessert for taking cookies without asking, for example. Take care to not be too severe, or you could end up promoting future lies to avoid harsh consequences.

    • 5

      Set a good example and be truthful yourself. Adults can tell little white lies each day, from telling your boss that you're sick and can't come to work when you're feeling fine or telling the electric company that the check is in the mail. When you tell small lies, your child soon learns that they're acceptable and will mirror behavior. Instead, model truth and accept the consequences of your actions so your child can do the same.

    2. Previous:

    Next:

    • How to Help a Child Deal With Teasing
      No parent wants her children to endure teasing from their peers, but many children do experience this behavior either occasionally or frequently. By modeling and practicing coping strategies, you can significantly improve your child’s confidenc
    • How to Teach Children Hospitality
      Busy lives and the social disconnectedness afforded by modern communication technologies are quickly swallowing up the art of hospitality. In times gone by, dropping in on friends and neighbors for a few hours of conversation, play or meals was a nat
    • How to Use Kitchen Timer to Motivate Kids
      You want his toys picked up from the living room, but your child prefers to watch TV. Getting your child to do tasks he perceives as work -- cleaning, homework, getting ready for school -- often takes a little push from you. The timer method sets con