by Nan Keltie

Created on: February 21, 2010   Last Updated: October 26, 2010

In early childhood, there is a fine line between make-believe and reality.  Young children have imaginary friends, make up grandiose stories and struggle with telling the truth.  The following songs and activities teach honesty in a variety of situations.  Acting them out can help build character in your students.

Activity #1  -  The truth about me!

Stand before the class and say, “I am wearing a red sweater today.”  Then ask if you are telling the truth.  If they don’t know for sure what you mean, ask them if your sweater is red.  When they nod or answer affirmatively, say, “Yes, I was telling the truth.  My sweater is red.”  

Continue this activity with other statements, such as,  "I am wearing boots today."  (The students will check to see if you are.) "Yes, I am wearing boots.  That is true."  Next, say "I have two hands.  Is that true?"  Wait for the students to respond.  If they hesitate, touch one palm and count 1, then touch the other and say 2.  Now ask, "Do I have two hands?  Yes, I have two hands, so that is true."  

Other ideas: "I have black hair.  Is that true?  Yes, I do have black hair, so that is true."  or "I have shiny buttons on my sleeves.  Do I have shiny buttons?  Yes, I do, so that is true."   Later, introduce something that is NOT true and see if they catch it:

“I have two heads.” 

Wait for them to giggle or squeal “No!” and explain that you were just teasing.  Explain that telling the truth and being honest means not teasing.  It means saying what is right.  Affirm this by saying, “I have one head.  Is that the truth?”  When they respond with a “Yes!” tell them they are absolutely right.

Now introduce the following song:

(Tune: Farmer in the Dell)
I will tell the truth,
I will tell the truth,
Saying what is right and true,
I will tell the truth.

Activity #2 - Do you have a dime?  
Many games are played with the intention of tricking your opponent.  This game is different in that it encourages children to be honest.  Explain the rules of the game:

-  Everyone will have a turn to play.
-  When it is your turn, I will put a dime in your hand.
-  I will have someone else ask you if you have any money.
-  If you are honest, you will tell the truth and say, “Yes.”

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>