big kids [6–9 years]

he is trying to fit in or impress the people he is telling his tall tales and if he perceives positive feedback to his exaggerating, the exaggerating [lying] could escalate. Sit your big kid down and talk about the difference between being honest and dishonest. Explain that if he is frequently dishonest, people will start to never believe him even when he is telling the truth. Also, make sure you take a look in the mirror and your own truth stretching behavior. Monkey see, monkey do!

If your big kid’s lying continues or gets worse, talk to your school counselor and/or trusted physician. There could be an outside factor influencing his behavior.

Iam mama, all heed my commands! Right? You know it all and need to be followed. But what about those handful of times when you’re wrong [gasp]? Then what? Do you dare admit you were wrong and, heaven forbid, ask for forgiveness? Don’t dig your heels in and hold these cards.

i’m sss…

It’s amazing how two simple words, I’m and sorry, can be so hard to put together in one sentence. Why? As parents we are always trying to do things perfectly [FYI…perfection is a myth] and admitting we are wrong can be tough. Are we undermining our authority? Will our tweener lose respect for us? And, well, it can be just plain embarrassing to admit you were wrong. Yeah, it’s hard, but a really important lesson you can teach your tweener is that admitting you are wrong is not a sign of weakness. We are all human and make mistakes. So, you screwed up, now what? First, look right into your tweener’s eyes. Next say it, “I’m sorry,” but be specific about what you are sorry about [i.e. I’m sorry I jumped to conclusions without hearing you out]. Then be quiet and listen. Your tweener might accept your apology or not. Either way, end with an “I love you” and move on.