Children can learn to lie from quite early on, usually when they are around three years of age. This is when they realise that you are not a mind reader and they can get away with little white lies.
But it can become a problem when these little white lies turn into a habit and you often spot your child lying about almost everything. That's when it is time to pull a few tricks on 'how to get a child to admit they are lying.'
A TikTok mum did just that. She shared her genius trick to uncovering when her children are lying and it has become a massive hit with other parents.
How To Get A Child To Admit They Are Lying: This TikTok Mum Shares Her Genius Trick
In her TikTok video, mum Victoria revealed that she's told her kids a white lie to get them to admit that they are lying.
She says, "I told my kids that when they lie, a star appears on their forehead which only a grown-up can see." She further explained, "So every time, they are lying to me, they actually cover their foreheads!"
This was in response to a video asking "What is the most useful lie that you have ever told your kids?"
A mum shared that even she does something similar with her kids with a minor twist. She tells them that their noses move. So now they cover their nose before lying!
Users share more tricks
Another mum shared another interesting trick to make her son eat vegetables. "I told my son that when I cook vegetables, I only make recipes Spiderman gave me," said the mum. And now the kid eats everything that is served on his plate.
Another user said that she convinced her kids that the car won't move until they put their seat belts on. This is another trick to make your little ones follow road safety rules.
Other users chimed in with their favourites like "the ice cream truck only plays music when it's out of ice cream."
One user wondered, "I love that they are lying to their kids to get them to stop lying!"
All in all, Victoria started an interesting conversation, which while funny, also brought out an important issue: getting children to admit that they are lying.
If children are not taught about being truthful, they may soon see it as an effective way to get out of any trouble or shirk responsibility. So, when your child tells a lie, address it immediately and discourage them from resorting to it the next time.
How To Get A Child To Admit They Are Lying: 5 Top Tips For Parents
Lead by example
Children imitate their parents and even when you are unaware, they are silently observing you. So be careful of your own behaviour. Remember that kids can't distinguish between little white lies and other lies.
For instance, don't lie about their age to get them a free meal at a restaurant. They will follow what they see. So be careful what you say and do around them.
Try to understand the reason behind their lie
There are three reasons for your kids to be lying. Once you find out the primary reason behind the lie, it can help you develop a plan to control their lying habit.
- Bragging: Most kids brag because they have low self-esteem and they want to get attention in front of their friends
- Fantasy world: Many preschoolers like to tell fantasy lies. For instance, they may say, "the lion came and ate my lunch." Make your children understand the difference between reality and make-believe. It is also sometimes good to let them be in their fantasy world to give a boost to their imagination and creativity.
- Avoid responsibility: Your kid may also be lying just to avoid some responsibility. In such a case you can use the reward technique and grant a small wish if they comply. If not, you should be clear about the rules and the fact that may come back to double-check the facts.
Take away privileges
When your children are caught telling a lie, you can take away privileges such as screen time, play time, or even extra sleep time during the weekends. It will also instil in them an understanding of consequences.
But at the same time, focus on teaching responsibility rather than blaming and shaming your child.
Be aware of how you respond to their misbehaviour
If your children are worried about getting punished or being yelled at when they make a mistake, they will not feel safe in telling you the truth. You need to be patient, keep your voice calm, and focus on addressing the problem.
Acknowledge honesty
When your child opens up about their issues and why they may have resorted to lying, it is important to admire their courage. This will encourage them to tell the truth next time too.
ALSO READ:
What To Do When Your Child Is Lying All The Time: Tips For Parents
Children And Lying: Teaching Kids About Honesty