Childhood stealing is actually very common, and most kids go through this stage for different reasons. As a parent, it is definitely alarming when you find out that your child is stealing. Even so, it is important to take some time and think through the situation before taking any remedial measures. Even though they have taken what’s not theirs, it is unlikely that this habit will extend to their adulthood. As a parent, if you react as inclined by nature, you may end up causing more harm than good. Get a better understanding about kids and stealing. Learn the reasons why your child steals, how you can prevent it and how to best handle the situation.

Why Do Kids Steal?

Kids in different age groups ranging from preschool goers to teens can steal for different reasons.

• Lack of understanding: Sometimes the cause of stealing may be in the age of the child. Most young children do not understand that it is wrong to take what is not theirs. They may not know that they should not take something without paying for it.
• Lack of self-control: The inability to control taking things that belong to others may also be a factor. Some kids are grown enough to understand what stealing is, and that it is wrong. However, they lack the self-control needed to avoid stealing.
• Need for attention: Some kids will steal as a way of calling for attention. Stealing for attention can be a reflection of a stressful condition at home, in school or around friends. Some even steal to call for help from abuse.
• For the thrill and peer pressure: This is especially common in preteens and teens. At this age, they are well aware that they should not steal but they do it regardless, mostly because of the thrill or due to peer pressure. Some teens steal as a way of being rebellious.
• Wanting things they can’t afford: Most teenagers steal because they do not have the funds to buy what they want. Most of them steal to be able to have items from popular brands and thus be on a par with their peers. Others steal things to sell and support their drug habits.

How to Handle Kids’ Stealing Issues

1. Allow the Child to Redress the Wrong

Give your child a chance to replace the stolen item in order to save face. You can let him know that you know the item has been stolen but you know that it will be replaced within the shortest time possible, without asking him whether he is the stealer.

2. Avoid Confrontation

It is important to avoid using confrontation when asking your child whether he has taken something that is not his. Find a loving and nice way of asking him to return the item as opposed to using harsh words. Also, let him know of the trail of damage he has left behind by taking something without paying for it and why it is wrong.

3. Replace the Item

Instead of calling names or pointing fingers, focus your attention of replacing the stolen item or money as soon as possible. Let the child know that the item he has stolen needs to be replaced. Ask him to help you figure out a way to replace the item. You can also let him pay for the replacements with his allowance money or work out a plan for him to repay the money.

4. Let the Child Face the Consequence

Whenever your child steals, especially in his teenage years, it is important for you to follow through with the consequences for his actions. If you find your teen stealing from the stores, you can take him back to the store, find a security guard and make him apologize for taking the item. The embarrassment he faces when apologizing and returning the item will cause him to avoid doing that in the future.

Physical punishment or any other punishment is unnecessary and may make the matter worse.

For more details on how to handle kids’ stealing issues, watch this video: 

How Can You Prevent Your Kid from Stealing?

1. Teach Your Kid the Ownership Concept

Toddlers do not know or have any ownership concept. This is evident since they think that everything belongs to them. After three years of age, however, kids can understand that not everything belongs to them. Teach kids the difference between “mine” and “yours.” As children grow, they will understand that they should borrow before taking what is not theirs.

2. Be the Model in Honesty

Kids get most of their habits from their parents. You need to show concern about other people’s items. Do not bring things home from the office or boast about getting more change from the supermarket in your kid’s presence. Let the child understand the value of honesty from you. This way, he will grow up knowing that it is wrong to take what does not belong to him.

3. Hide Temptation

At times, kids steal because they have been tempted to do so. Avoid leaving valuable items lying around, and get a locked box for items your child may be tempted to steal. If your child is taking from another child, help the victim to learn how to keep his items away from your child’s reach.

4. Fulfill Your Child’s Basic Needs

Most kids steal because they feel it is their only hope of getting what they need. Give your child enough allowance to meet their personal needs. This way, you will ensure that your child has all they need to lead a comfortable life and avoid the temptation of stealing.