Spend time with your children and show them how trust and the truth go hand-in-hand.
When you catch your a child in a lie, the importance of teaching truth-telling becomes evident. Some kids learn that telling a fib can get them out of trouble when they begin to learn the way the world works around them. Learning the importance of truth-telling is vital for children, so model virtuous behavior so your kids have a proper example to follow.
Instructions
1. Read stories together about truth-telling. Try "The Boy Who Cried Wolf," which is one of Aesop's fables, or "Don't Tell Lies, Lucy!" by Phil Roxbee Cox. Discuss their meaning. Leave the books on easy-to-reach bookshelves so your child can read them in her spare time.
2. Reveal that dealing with the consequences of your behavior is an important part of your day. For instance, admit you took the last scoop of ice cream, even if you know your husband might get upset with you. Allow your child to see you admit to your behavior while you deal with the consequences.
3. Always tell your child the truth. Tell your child what really happened to his pet when it died, for instance, and give realistic explanations about where babies come from. Your child might remember your answers to his questions when he grows up, and he will know if you were truthful with him.
4. Let your child know the way to deal with guilt is not to cover it up with a lie. Explain that a mistake is only a mistake, while a lie would make you truly disappointed in him. Reassure your child that you love him even when he makes a mistake.
5. Require your child to deal with the consequences of not telling the truth. Punishment may be unnecessary if your child understands how disappointed you are by her lie. On the other hand, if you give punishment, make sure your child knows it is for the lie and not for the action she was covering up with the lie.
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