Q: What to do to a kid not telling complete truth or make up stories?

As a child’s imagination develops, so does their ability to make up stories and tell untruths. As elaborate and entertaining as these tales may be, it is important for children to understand the difference between reality and fantasy and how not telling the truth is hurtful and irresponsible.

• Try not to punish. Punishing your child for lying may make them not want to tell you the truth at the risk of getting into trouble.

• Help your child come up with solutions. If your child lied about making a mess, suggest that they help you clean it instead of lying about it. If your child steals money from you, come up with a way that they can earn money to buy the things they want.

• Praise your child’s honesty. Whenever your child tells you the truth, make sure to show your appreciation of their honesty. There’s no need to necessarily reward truth-telling but your child needs to know that this is the expected behaviour.