2019 Edition vol6 Issue 22 DIGITAL

KIDS
Written by
Ogo Ubabukoh
Some behavioural experts have argued
that lying is natural. In most cases, we
lie out of shame, to save face or avoid
embarrassments, to brag or due to
low-esteem. These make lies become
inevitable, more or less. Yet, sometimes
we lie to avoid danger. Regardless,
whatever prompts one to lie, lying is not
socially acceptable, as such, it must be
discouraged.
Since kids are the leaders of tomorrow, it
is often recommended that parents teach
their children to avoid lies. This will help
them a lot when they grow older. How
can you achieve this task as a parent?
Below are some steps you need to take as
a parent:
Show Example
Kids look up to their parents as
their hero and for guidance, so in
order to inculcate the spirit of honesty in
your kids, parents must live by example.
You cannot expect your kids not to lie
when you as a parent lie - especially, in
their presence. Nor do you have the moral
ground to punish your children for lying if
you cannot prove yourself otherwise.
Rules
Children are more likely to adapt
to a situation if they are expected
to follow certain rules. When parents
make it a rule that lies are prohibited at home,
children are more likely going to obey the rules;
they will, in most cases, equally carry the same
rules outside their homes.
Stories about moral and
advantage of telling the truth
Children often identify with the
stories; buy your kids, children books
that deal with moral issues. Spend time
with them, for example, when they want
to go to bed, and read some portion of
the book and explain to them clearly, the
importance of saying the truth. In most
cases, children identify with the message
of those books and try to channel their
behaviour towards the message.
Consequences for lying
Let your children know that every
action has repercussions. Same
with lying. Kids should know that lying
could put them in danger; they might be
punished by the authorities for lying; also
they might not be trusted if they are found
lying. Worse still, when kids often lie, it
comes difficult for their parents to know
when they are saying the truth. Hence a
good reason to stick to the truth.
Learn to be pragmatic
without lying
Kids are a product of society and
they interact with others. Sometimes,
Are you a child?
Can you write
interesting
stories?
Do you want
to be part of
the Kata Kata
Creative Club?
Please send us
your story (not
more than one
page) with your
e-mail contact
details. Perhaps
your story may
be published with
your photo or you
may win a prize
for your creative
talent.
Send your story
to:
info@katakata.org
www.katakata.org
Continuation on PAGE 28
2019 Issue 22 Kata kata cartoon magazine
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