What should I do about my 5 year old who is lying about real life things that can get people in trouble?

Answer by  ellerbellerz (141)

He is most likely doing it for the attention. Make sure your family and friends know about this if they are going to spend time with him so they can report it if they see it. My guess would be that the "consequences" aren't strong enough or followed through with.

Answer by  crasks (99)

In private, look your child in the eyes and firmly tell him how seriously his behavior is affecting others. Give him examples. If talking doesn't work, call someone he has talked about and confront him together so he sees the seriousness. If not, try spanking if it is allowed.

Answer by  warren37676 (57)

Truly moral individuals do the right thing all the time, no matter what. Three major theories for developing moral behavior: Identification and guilt, Reinforcement and modeling, and Learning and reasoning about justice and fairness. There is not enough space to tell you how to use these beneficially, good luck!

Answer by  BrianMatthewJanisse (101)

You need to explain to your child that he is hurting others by his irresponsible lying. Make an effort to show him how others are affected by his decisions. Make him aware that people he loves will be negatively affected and above all make sure he feels loved at home.

Answer by  John (9008)

Most children go through phases where they lie. You are right to talk to him and correct him for doing so. However, it will not fix itself immediately. You have to be consistent in not tolerating lying and in punishing him for doing so.