Did Your Child Tell A Lie?

Many atimes, when a toddler tells you something that is other than the truth, we think that he is telling a lie. Look at it another way, could your child think that he is telling you the truth. The truth that to him happened in his fantasy? Children tend to have a hard time differentiating between fantasy and reality. That be said, see the depth of the situation, is the truth too far fetched or otherwise. Sit your child down, and explain. Ask your child questions such as 

• When did this happen?
• Where did it happen?
• Was anyone else there?
• What did you do after that?
• Are you sure you did not imagine/ dream about this?

The answers to these, should give you a vague idea as to where the truth is coming from. Children can be manipulative to get your attention, support and love. But they are not devious, to scheme lies. The next time, you think your child told a lie, give him the benefit of the doubt, and assess the situation first.

If you are caregiver or teacher, never label a child a liar. Always look into the situation, see if the children understands the difference between fantasy and reality.

"Another sign that children are distinguishing between reality and fantasy is the use of the word "pretend". Parents who introduce a word like "pretend" as they play with their two-year-olds usually find that their children pick up the term quickly. Once the two-year-old is familiar with the term, it becomes easier to discuss situations in which the difference between reality and fantasy is unclear. Imaginary thinking has both the power and limitations. It can create a powerful imaginary experience, but not directly change the real world. As children play out a variety of themes, and as parents talk to them about their pretending, children begin to appreciate this paradox."

Resources: Your Child At Play: Two to Three Years by Marilyn Segal, Ph.D.
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