Twisting the truth or making up a lie is part of normal child development.
While many parents are concerned when their child doesn’t tell the truth, in reality these lies are often without ill intent. Whether it’s for fear of displeasing or to hide something stupid, at this age they don’t yet know the difference between good and bad deeds.
Before 6 years the child does not make the difference between reality and the imaginary
Among the youngest, before 6 years old, it is very common to distort the truth to have fun, make people laugh or avoid being punished. At this age, they don’t yet understand the meaning of right and wrong, let alone the impact it can have on others.
If your child has a tendency to tell stories about his parents or what happens at home, this is a way for him to embellish reality, often to play smart or impress his friends and compensate for a be a little fragile.
How to react when he lies?
Before the age of 6, it is important to consider the lie for what it is, ie a story that your child tells himself rather than as a real problem. Of course, don’t hesitate to encourage and congratulate him when he tells the truth, even if it’s to confess something stupid.
Help him put his emotions and desires into words by explaining to him the importance of telling the truth so that others will trust him. You can also help him to value himself other than by telling imaginary stories or even insist when he invents by explaining to him that he is pretending.
In general, do not react too negatively to a lie and try to set an example by avoiding lying, except for Santa Claus and the little mouse which allow him to stimulate his imagination.
Find out more: “Leslies”, Dr Catherine Dolto, Milan editions.
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