Parenting comes with its own set of challenges, and one mother found herself grappling with the thieving antics of her six-year-old daughter.
A mother’s Dilemma
Ms Liew, a 29-year-old mother, faced a unique challenge with her intelligent daughter who excelled in academics but had a penchant for theft, according to China Press.
The six-year-old girl had developed a habit of pilfering stationery from her classmates, bringing them home and even fabricating stories about receiving them as gifts from her teacher.
Stemming from concerns about her daughter’s behavior, Ms Liew, along with her husband and the kindergarten teacher, tried various disciplinary methods, including stern talks, love, and slow lectures—all to no avail.
A Mother’s Ultimatum
Frustrated with the persistence of her daughter’s mischievous streak, Ms Liew finally issued a stern ultimatum—promising to take her to the police station if she stole again.
The breaking point came when Ms Liew’s younger daughter reported another instance of theft. Worried that the behavior might influence her younger child, Ms Liew decided it was time to act on her threat.
A Mother’s Decision
On the morning of November 10th, Ms Liew took her crying daughter to the local police station, the child’s fear palpable as she promised to mend her ways.
At the police station, a Mandarin-speaking officer took charge of the situation, delivering a lecture to the young girl that lasted one to two hours.
Surprisingly, the officer handed the girl RM20 (S$5.75) and instructed her to buy whatever she desired—an unexpected twist in this unusual disciplinary tale.
A Mother’s Surprise
Ms Liew was taken aback by the officer’s generosity, but he explained that the money was a lesson—every stolen item needed to be paid for.
The six-year-old used the money to purchase items she coveted, perhaps realizing the consequences of her actions.
A Mother’s Defence
Ms Liew defended her unconventional method, expressing concern that without proper discipline, her daughter might tread down darker paths as an adult.