Children begin to be effective liars between the ages of 2 and 4, says Frances Stott, PhD., writing for Scholastic. Stott points out that lying involves several skills that are crucial for existence: emotional control, independence, and appropriate perspective. That's small comfort to a teacher dealing with a student who lies in class, but there are approaches that will help correct the behavior. Point out the consequences of lying. For younger children, Stott suggests telling the story of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" to encourage the child to reconsider his story. Keep consequences appropriate and choose something that will develop the child's conscience, such as a confession and an apology. Model appropriate behavior in the classroom.
Reasons for stealing vary, and are often tied to age. Very young kids may not have reached the point of understanding why the behavior is wrong. Older kids may be envious of someone else, or may be expressing anger or other emotional upset, according to Kidshealth. In the case of younger children stealing, it is important to explain why it is wrong and take corrective action, such as having the child return the stolen item and apologize. Older children who should already understand the ramifications of stealing should meet with consequences that are more severe, depending upon the particular offense.
There are different types of cheating that might occur in school. A student might cheat on a test or cheat while playing a game. Reasons for cheating vary as well, according to KidsHealth. Some students may be insecure about their chances of doing well without cheating. Others may be overloaded, distracted, or lazy. Students who find themselves with extracurricular conflicts that limit study time need to consider how to rearrange their schedules. Those who are feeling unwell or have temporary problems need to communicate with the teacher. Those who are unsure of doing well should speak to the teacher about obtaining extra help with their studies. In addition to penalties on grades, contact with parents, or sitting out of a game or team situation, students should be made to understand that consequences for cheating get worse the further in life they continue to do it.
In a survey of elementary students, Stanford University and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital found that nine out of 10 elementary students have suffered at the hands of a bully; and six out of 10 have engaged in bullying behavior themselves. The same study found that victims of bullies suffer higher rates of anxiety, depression, and thoughts of suicide than those who are not bullied. It is crucial for teachers, parents and administrators to discuss bullying with students individually. School-wide presentations are one approach for spreading an anti-bullying message. Positive peer pressure is also very effective.