How to Prevent Minors from Stealing

Explain the consequences of stealing. Maybe you discovered your child stole money from his wallet or you found the stolen item in his or her backpack. If this is the child’s first offense and has not been convicted of theft, you need to talk to your child and explain that it is illegal to take property that belongs to someone else and can lead to jail time. Don’t take this seriously or make your child believe that stealing is okay if not caught. Be clear and persuasive when explaining to your child the serious, life-changing consequences of stealing. ^[1]

• Use legal terms to explain jail time if you commit theft (when you take someone else’s property like a wallet or bicycle) and felony (when you intentionally steal someone else’s money, such as stealing a wallet or writing an invalid check). ^[2]
• The value of stolen property will determine whether the crime is serious or misdemeanor. Regardless of the severity of the crime, your child will be fined a huge amount or jailed for several months to several years if caught red-handed. ^[3]

Show your child the consequences of stealing. Another approach is to show your child instead of just talking about what would happen if they were caught. Some parents suggest, if your child steals money or things from you, call the police and have the police pretend to arrest your child. The officer can handcuff and put your child in the trunk, then explain what a felony conviction is and how it affects the child’s future. ^[4]

• This can be a last resort and should only be done when your child steals from you as it is up to you to decide whether or not your child should be convicted. However, this method can frighten the child so much that he no longer intends to steal again.
• If your child steals elsewhere, try showing them prison documentaries and inmate interviews. This will show your child exactly what happens in prison that he may one day experience.

Use punishment, which requires the child to act positively. Instead of spanking or berating your child to increase anger and resentment, focus on punishment that requires positive action to compensate for the theft. This will make up for the damage stealing does to your relationships with those around you, and teach your kids the value of honesty. ^[5]

• For example, you might catch a child stealing money from your wallet. You can punish your child by making them pay back all the money they stole. This can take time because your child needs to work or work as a maid to earn money to pay you. However, children will learn about the consequences of their behavior, live responsibly when looking for a job, and understand why stealing is wrong.
• Another option for getting your kid’s stolen money back is to ask them to clean the house or cook dinner for the family for a month. In this way, children will do positive things for everyone to make up for their mistakes.