Stealing is often more of an embarrassment to parents than an
indication that a child is bad. If shoplifting and minor thievery occur
with any regularity, ask yourself a few questions.
Does your child really understand the difference between his or her
own and others' possessions?
Does the child have enough money of his or her own to spend as
desired?
There are steps you can take to stem the tide of stealing.
Don't leave money lying around to tempt the young child If your
wallet is off limits, say so very explicitly.
Be aware that shoplifting by 10 and 12 year old kids is often done on
dares. But call shoplifting exactly what it is, stealing, and explain
just what the consequences might be.
Don't grill your child to get a confession; simply confront him or
her with the facts as you know them and insist that the act be put
right.
Go with your child to the scene of the stealing incident, but insist
that he or she take responsibility for returning the item or paying for
it. And hope that the shopkeeper will treat the matter as seriously as
you have.
And finally, don't bring up the subject again. Once the matter is
settled, it's not reasonable to try a child for the same crime more than
once.