Teaching the Value of Honesty

Let’s face it — being honest isn’t always easy. For children who don’t always take into consideration the consequences of their actions, it can be especially difficult. They learn early on that they’ll be punished for making mistakes, and lying can seem like an easy way to cover up for wrongdoing. Children need to be taught why honesty is important with graceful guidance. Here’s how you can help your child understand the value of honesty. 

Be Honest Yourself

Positive role models go a long way in helping children learn. Set an example by being honest with your child. This is especially important when it comes to difficult topics like death and illness. Make sure to talk to them in age-appropriate ways when dealing with serious subjects, rather than avoiding them entirely. If you want to keep something private, you’re still being honest if you tell your child it’s a personal matter.

Praise Honest Gestures

Reward your child if they’ve been honest when it was difficult. If they could have lied to avoid punishment and decided to tell the truth instead, thank them. Tell your child that honesty makes you happy and shows that they’re trustworthy and reliable. The more positive reinforcement they receive for doing the right thing, the more it will become the default.  

Avoid Honesty Traps 

Don’t ask your child a question if you already know the answer. You may be tempted to ask your child if they misbehaved. However, this is setting your child up to lie. Reframe the question into a statement, saying something like “Since you did not clean your room, this is what will happen.” That way, you’re being upfront, and your child does not have a chance to deflect or get caught up in a lie. 

Be Understanding

When children lie, it’s often out of shame. It’s pretty clear to children when they’ve done something wrong, but they’re still learning how to own up to it. Though they may deny it, they’re always seeking the approval of others, especially trusted adults. It helps to explain to your child that even if being honest doesn’t feel good in the moment, it ultimately leads to better outcomes. 

Keep Calm if They Slip Up

Catching your child in a lie can be frustrating, especially if you’ve told them over and over that you’d rather hear the truth. However, your child more than likely lied because they were afraid of a strong emotional reaction. If you lose your cool over a lie, they may feel vindicated and simply try to lie better next time around. Also be sure to avoid calling your child a liar. This will cause them to become defensive and, over time, they may believe that word defines them.

At our Osceola Catholic schools, honesty is a core value. We instill leadership and compassion in our students through rigorous academics and a foundation of faith. We foster an atmosphere of care and an environment of high expectations and effective discipline. To learn more about what makes us different, contact us here.