White Lies

I think some telling of lies is completely normal. Some of it is testing the limits but I also think sometimes their little brains have trouble understanding that just because they think or want something to be true it doesn't make it true. I would coach her a bit on it before moving to punishing. I would probably use a firm voice so she knows you mean business but not that same harsh one I use for when she is in REAL trouble. Maybe something like " I can see the ice cream bowl right there, so I know you had ice cream. You need to always tell me the truth, tell me what really happened." Tell her that lying hurts your feelings and that there is a rule of no lying to mom or dad. Good luck.

Hi M.,
White lies are still lies! If she is telling white lies now and gets into the habit of it, what kind of lies will the grow into when she's a teenager? Set the precedence for telling the truth now, it's easier to correct kids when they are younger. Habits are hard enough to break, don't let it go.
V. A

My daughter would tell white lies all the time. We had to start disiplining her for it. Granted, they were small white lies, but then it can turn into a habit or worse. Once it was, "Did you have ice cream after school?" "No." Even though there was a bowl out, and her brother was eating something else. Ususally, they are afraid of being punished for telling the truth, knowing they did something wrong. Other times, it is out of habit. Or wanting to see what they can get away with. It ended up with "I didn't hit him". But in reality, she did. We had to reqard her for telling the truth, but remind her that she still broke a rule and will be disiplined for it. We had to tell her this not getting angry or mad, but just a normal tone of voice. She doesn't lie as much any more!
Good luck!

Showing her creativity is coloring a bunny green or pretending she's a bunny. Lying is not creativity, its lying. Never allow it. As she is being punished, talk about the value of trust. That you need to be able to trust everything she says.

Set the example. For example, don't ever ask her to say you're not home when she answers a phone call from someone you don't want to talk to.

Trust is an important character trait to develop in her. As my oldest turns 18 this month, it has been a joy to be able to say yes to her often because I know I can trust her.

Enjoy your little ones! :)