The Whole You October 2016 | Page 14

Dear Julianne’s Joy, My 8-year-old son is sneaking things and lying to cover it up. We’ve talked with him about telling the truth and taking responsibility, but he refuses to stop. What do we do? - At our Wit’s End sending up a flare with these unpleasant behaviours. Kids push the limits when they do not feel secure in themselves. Look at what was going on in your son’s life when the sneaking and lying started. Spend a lot of quality time with him and probe for the emotional activity under the surface. Address that instead of the actions that are driving you crazy. - Dear Wit’s End, Sneaking around and lying are symptoms of a deeper problem. The key is getting to the root issue and the symptoms will disappear. Is he trying to get your attention? He might feel afraid or invisible in some way and is Love, Julianne Julianne Harvey is an author, speaker and nurturer. She has a certificate in Counselling Skills and finds joy in authentic, vulnerable and caring connection with others. Read her weekly blog on self-care and the power of nurture at julianneharvey.com.