My Child Steals

Many, if not most, children steal something at least once in their lives. All children, even the best, are tempted to steal. Parents have trouble trusting their child when he steals. They feel angry and disappointed.

1. Young children may not understand the concept of ownership and stealing. Explain to them that “pretending” something is theirs, is different from it really belonging to them.
2. Older children often steal as a result of peer pressure or to “be cool”. Avoid telling them things like “I better not catch you stealing” because it encourages them to lie about the stealing. Teach honesty in your words and actions.
3. If a child steals something, make him return it. If it cannot be returned (like an eaten candy bar) make him pay for it.
4. Teach children to ask for what they want and understand why they can’t have everything they want. Give them a chance to earn money and save it for what they want.
5. If stealing continues over and over, it may indicate a serious problem. Seek out counseling with a professional who is used to dealing with children.
6. Forgive. This does not mean pretending that the bad behavior is okay. It means moving on without holding on to the offense.