Although toddlers have not fully developed a conscience yet, they should understand that they are expected to tell the truth. If your kids are bending the truth, here are effective ways on how to teach a toddler about honesty.
1. Avoid labels
Do not call your kid a liar by judging and shaming him into submission as this will only make him defensive and start living up to the label. It will be better to say that, "This is not like you, you are usually honest with me." This lets them know that you do not approve of their behavior giving them a chance to explain why they lied in the first place.
2. Set a good example
Create a truthful environment at home by doing what you say. When adults distort the truth, kids are more likely to do the same as they like following mom and dad.
One of the prime examples where parents fall into the trap of dishonesty is writing a letter to the teacher for whatever reason such as no homework or cutting class. These actions sanction lying and shows kids how easy it is to avoid consequences.
3. Avoid being confrontational
Instead of confronting your child in front of other people, pull your kids aside and address the situation in a private manner. Children have a tendency to lie just to save face so forcing them to admit dishonesty might force him into lying, according to She Knows.
4. Teach that lying does not work
If a child insistently denies doing something wrong, give him a way to make up for the bad behavior by having him clean up glass from a broken window or saying sorry to a sister he hit. This will help kids learn that lying does not make him less accountable and that problem can still be resolved by acting responsibility, according to Baby Center.
5. Talk with your child
Teaching kids about how important honesty will build trust and closeness between family members. Honesty within family relationships can develop into the backbone of a family making it easy to support, defend and fight for them.
6. Reward the truth
Parents are usually quick to scold but not quick to praise, which does not help in teaching kids about honesty. Honesty should be reward with lots of praise and hugs to build self-confidence and reinforce positive behavior.
