my 4 years old daughter started stealing! she probably doesn't really understand what she is doing but I am finding it scary just to think about it. If we go to the supermarket and she likes something she'll put it in her pocket. I made go back to the shop with me to return the items thinking that'll stop. She did it again by hiding nursery toys in her bag, taking car keys from her carer and hiding her pocket....etc. Both me and her dad are out of breath with her, I explained to her that we cannot take what does not belong to us. tried to make save money so that she can pay for what she wants and realises we don't just take from the supermarket. It got to a stage where we just telling her off! Has your child doe this at this age? I am in tears now because I have tried my best but nothing works.

Hi there Zahara,
I am so sorry to hear that you are upset, it is obvious you are doing your best and at the end of the day that is all any of us can do! So chin up. Few thoughs that may be worth a go. you could try giving her a shopping list of her own when you are shopping to keep her fingers and mind busy, and giving her a little something or trip to the park after, when she does well and does not take. She could be taking things for attention and if this is the case telling her off extensively may only reinforce that behaviour by giving it more attention. time out for taking suppernanny style may work and rewards for not taking things. What ever you do don't beat your self up about it. The are no right answers your daughter is an individual and what works for others may not fot her - you know her best and what makes her tick, I am sure you will sort it in the end.