Stealing Behavior

Kids stealing are not necessarily going to be thieves! Stealing is actually a pretty common mistake. First you need to be aware of the reasons of this behavior.

Know that children under 5 have no concepts of ownership. School-aged children may have difficulties controlling themselves. It’s also often the expression of an emotional lack or a basic need that isn’t met. In some other kids, they need to have control over their life. Knowing the root of kids stealing behavior is of course important. You need to try perceiving things with their eyes. But if the reasons vary, the way to react is constant and only depends on your child’s age.

Here’s what you can do:

• Stay calm. Don’t overact. You can’t teach anything by being angry or by yelling at your child and you can’t understand your child’s mistakes by reacting impulsively.

• Do not accuse your child if you didn’t see him steal something. Until you catch him in the act, don’t judge, don’t accuse. It’s difficult but essential, first because you might be wrong, second because your child mustn’t see you don’t trust him.

• Very young kids stealing don’t know it’s wrong so explain it very simply. Be careful not to label your child as bad, dishonest, or a thief. Only the act of stealing is bad and dishonest. Labeling your child will only make him grow to fill that label. Don’t forget this.

• If your child is old enough to know that stealing is bad and if he stole from someone outside the family, have him return the object and apologize. Accompany him. He needs to see consequences and feel the shame that stealing brings. If he stole from you, make him pay by helping you around the house.

• Understand his needs and the emotional lack he feels. If he needs attention, give him more of your time.

Stealing in children is a mistake that can be easily handled and solved. But, when it has already become a habit or if your child is a teenager he might be influenced by other people. In that case, you need more help than just a few tips and a parenting guide or counseling might be appropriated.

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