3 yr. old sticky fingers

[lilysmommy8503]

So, we actually went to the mall today after our LLL meeting.  It was such a good morning for the kids and I and it was a pretty good day to be out.  We found great deals at J.C.Penney - shirts/shorts for my hubby and dad for only $1.97 each which I am putting away for Christmas gifts.

Anyway, I couldn't resist the extra 50% off sign outside Children's Place.  I love to look at their clothing and only usually buy hats and socks off the clearance racks.  Well, they have this Halloween wand that is pink with a pumpkin on top and ribbons. Lily picked it up and wanted it and I told her to put it back.  Well, I thought she had until I was unloading the diaper bag into the car and guess what I found hidden under Grayson.  THE WAND!  I was sooooooo angry, I wanted to spank her little 3 year old butt.  Instead, I asked her how it got in our stroller.  She took it and said someone put it in there.  I asked who could have put it in there, we didn't pay for it and she told me someone else put it in there.  Then she admitted to having taken it.  I locked the car and marched her right back to the store!

On the way, I explained that we do not take things.  It is stealing.  That the store could call the police and she could be in a lot of trouble and how upset I was with her and that she needed to apologize.  The lady in the store was really nice and thanked Lily for bringing it back.  She looked at Lily (now shyly hiding behind my leg) and asked her if mommy had told her what could happen for stealing things and she left it at that when Lily nodded yes.

I have punished her and taken away any cartoon/movie privelages and any sweets/candy for 1 week.  She apologized to me on the way out and said she wouldn't steal again.

My parents laughed at me tonight and told me a story  of a toy I took from a garage sale at age 3/4, but I told them that the lady had given it to me.

Has anyone had this sort of thing happen?  How would you handle this with a 3 year old?

 

[Lynette]

Oct. 21, 2008 at 9:03 AM

a similar incidence happened with each one of my siblings.  We were all had to go back to the store apologize and give back the item.  That embarrassment and confrontation was enough to get it through our heads not to do it again.  It's so normal, happens at least once to almost all kids.  Just keep a closer eye on her.  But my guess is she won't do it again, HUGS.

[lilysmommy8503]

Oct. 21, 2008 at 10:09 AM

The funny thing is she was right there next to me, the stroller was between us.  I don't think she will do it again.  She is being so good, she was very aware that I was mad.

(Original Poster)