A vivid imagination is one thing, but a lie is a lie!

When your child tells a lie, it’s up the parents to get a handle on the situation. Most teachers and parents perceive lying as a character flaw that could lead to serious problems for your child.

Behavioral research shows that children who lie also get into trouble for fighting, stealing, developing poor study skills and hanging out with the wrong crowd.

Parents can address the lying issue by encouraging their child to tell the truth --- no matter what. Here’s how you can get your to be truthful.

• Always tell your child the truth and serve as a role model
• Let your child know there are fewer consequences for telling the truth
• The truth builds closer relationships between parents and children
• Parents can support/help their child when armed with the truth
• Tell your child that it is bad to lie
• Let your child know it’s okay if they make a mistake
• Do not lie for or with your child because it sends the wrong signal
• Have an open door policy and give child the freedom of speech
• Punish your child for lying
• Remind your child that you have unconditional love for him/her