Lying
Many parents worry how and when to punish children for lying. Lying is a normal part of development and children lie at different ages for different reasons.
Preschoolers lie by telling Tall Tales. Children of this age group have expanding imaginations and do not understand the difference between what is real and not real. Some parents simply listen to the tales and do nothing. Others will add reality to the children's stories to help the children see the difference between make believe and reality. Preschoolers also lie to get their own way. This age group often does not see anything wrong with stretching the truth to gain something they want. Parents should not get angry, but correct the child's lie with the truth.
As children enter school age years, lying is a concept they know is wrong. Lying becomes a means to avoid trouble, make themselves look good, get attention or praise from others, or to get something they want. Some lie because they hear their parents lie or because they are trying to protect themselves or a peer from getting into trouble.
Parents use many skills to tell when their children are lying. Facial expressions, inconsistencies in the children's statements and rehearsed statements are usually signs of lies. Parents should teach children the importance of telling the truth and set a good example. Devise a set of rules for disciplining lying and do not reward lying behaviors. Most importantly, parents should praise children for speaking the truth. If lying behaviors continue on a consistent basis, parents should seek professional help with the problem.