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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Stealing by Younger Children
DESCRIPTION
Children commonly try to steal toys, food, or money from
parents, friends, or a store. Before age 4 or 5, children
don't understand "ownership." Prior to that they consider
everything "mine." Fortunately, they can't conceal stealing
well during these early years.
THE RULE
Clarify your expectation. "Don't take things that don't
belong to you, because the person they belong to will miss
them and feel sad."
DISCIPLINE TECHNIQUE
If your child steals something, respond as follows:
- Have your child take the stolen object back to the
teacher, storekeeper, friend, or other rightful owner.
The embarrassment of doing this, especially with you
present, often prevents future stealing.
- If the stolen object has been broken or the food has been
consumed, help your child think of ways to earn money to
pay the owner back.
- It's smart to be suspicious when your child suddenly
"finds" a new possession. And it's good if you catch
your child stealing at a young age. The sooner he learns
that stealing doesn't work, the easier it will be for him
to give it up.
- Praise your child for honesty and be a model of honesty
yourself.
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