Be Honest and Tell the Truth

by Cheri J. Meiners

It's never too soon to learn the difference between what's true and what isn't. Words and pictures help young children discover that being honest in words and actions builds trust and self-confidence. They also learn that telling the truth sometimes takes courage and tact. Includes discussion questions, skits, scenarios, and games that reinforce the ideas being taught.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

40 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

About the author

Cheri has her master's degree in elementary education and gifted education. A former first-grade teacher, she has taught education classes at Utah State University and has supervised student teachers. She is the author of the award-winning children's series, 'Learning to Get Along', and the new series, 'Being the Best Me.' Cheri and her husband, David, have six children and three grandchildren.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gives specific picture examples of how to tell the truth and still be polite, when to speak up, and when to keep a secret. Addresses that telling the truth doesn't mean always saying everything on your mind- that everything has its time and place.

[Eve Nicholson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is probably my favorite book in the series. At least it’s the one I use the most. Children need help. Social stories like this one are a perfect way to talk to them about their actions and values.

[Principle Based Learning]

(recommended by: Ashley B)
Click here for the full article on: More Than Just Fairytales

[Jasmine Olivia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely going to re-read this lol

[Alexandra Chauran · Rating 5 out of 5]

This whole series is amazing as far as helping little kids understand social concepts. This was another one recommended by my daughter's Montessori school teacher. These are available in my library.

[Briana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Simple book with many positive, straightforward social skills messages.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have one child who particularly struggles with telling the truth. As usual, Be Honest and Tell the Truth begins with why being honest is a benefit for the child. The child can feel good about his or her choices and behavior. Treating others the way that we each want to be treated. I love that being honest is discussed as a decision to be made ahead of time. We can decide to always be honest. Thinking about how others will feel about the words we plan to use, yet still choosing to find kind words that are true. It can be respectful to keep some words and thoughts to yourself. But you can talk to a trusted adult whenever you're unsure what to do. Letting others know when we're joking is important, and also, stopping the jokes when not everyone is having fun is a good idea. Telling the truth sometimes takes courage, but we can do that. Don't blame others. Doing one's own work. And being honest even when no one sees is important. Keeping our promises is something we can do when we do what we say we will. When we keep our word, people can depend on us. We can show respect to others by not touching their things without permission. And if we find something that doesn't belong to us, we can try to find the owner. Being honest is worth more than having an item that doesn't belong to us. And the book ends with repeating the benefits of being honest to the child, when we treat others fairly, they can believe and trust us. And beyond that, we can feel good about ourselves.

Like the others in this series that I've reviewed, Be Honest and Tell the Truth is packed full of great information to help a child see the benefits of being honest and telling the truth. There are extra instructions for the parents at the end. These types of books spark communication with your kids on what you both expect from common situations. I like how things are worded "I can..." because it's subconsciously planted in the child that they are capable of these ideas without being confrontational.

Be Honest and Tell the Truth is a great book that all parents can add to their collections of books on manners. (Surely all parents have multiple books about manners for young children, right?) It presents information in a way that helps the child feel empowered to know that they are capable of being honest in situations. I'm giving it 4.5 Stars. Have you or your child read Be Honest and Tell the Truth? What did you think? Let me know!

[Theediscerning · Rating 4 out of 5]

A book that goes way beyond the title – this monologue, from a girl who wants to be the best person she can, covers speaking up, being fair and considerate and sensible and ready to converse with adults if needed, as well as just being honest. Honesty here includes returning dollar bills to a lady who drops them in the market, 'fessing up to spilling drinks (and perhaps wiping the tables down in penance) and so much more. The way this even covers knowing when to stop at a jest or prank does make the girl really look a goody-two-shoes, and not a realistic character, but while the book asks too much of our improvement at least it shows that improvement and makes us want it. Is that really worse than the alternative, in all honesty?