Parenting is one of the hardest roles because every child exhibits different characteristics. Parents must know that when children do not do what you want them to do, it is not intentional.
Usually, behind every children's tantrums, there are underlying reasons why they are acting that way. When a kid starts lying or sneaking around, parents should try to correct the negative action. Here are five effective ways on how to handle children's sneaky behavior.
Stay calm
While it may be tempting to react negatively once you find out your child is lying or is being sneaky, doing so would not solve the problem. Try not to take it personally and stay calm. Sneaky children do not mean to hurt their parents.
They are more likely to try to get away with something instead. Your child may tend to do the behavior again to avoid making you angry or frustrated in the future.
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Acknowledge it immediately
Children believe that they could get away when they try to sneak around. As parents, you have to make sure that your children know you are aware of their actions. Tell them that you know they are lying or sneaking around right away, based on "Empowering Parents."
It would be helpful to let your children know you know something is up when they try to be sneaky. Do note that you would ask them for more information and that you would be monitoring them closely in the future.
Be a good role model
The best way to teach children what to do is by modeling. "Quick and Dirty Tips" noted that if parents want their children to be honest, they should show honesty themselves. Children pick up what they see in their parents, so be sure to model them how you want them to be.
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Explore other options
Having to correct your child is the best chance for you to help them with problem-solving skills. Teach them what's best to do when you catch them lying or sneaking around. When your child still denies the action he did, seek their help in solving the mystery.
If something is broken or is missing, ask them to help you find out what had happened. It will teach your children that lying would not get them anywhere or could get them into more problems in the future.
See also: Positive Parenting Solutions: 5 Ways to Get Your Child to Listen Without Yelling
Be consistent
When you tell your child about the sneaky behavior he or she did, make sure that you are consistent about it. Teach your child that there are better ways to handle problems instead of lying or sneaking about them.
While it might be uncomfortable for children to talk about their sneaky behavior, it is the best way to correct the behavior. Be consistent and calm when discussing things so as not to enforce the negative behavior on them.
