New research is pointing to lying as an early mile-stone for cognitive development in children. So if your little one is caught lying be sure to not too quickly attach to them the label of “liar” or “sneaky”- she might just be “gifted.” Using lying as a teachable moment can help foster in the child an understanding of empathy and what others are thinking.
Plus, think about the quote from Picasso, “We all know that Art is not truth. Art is a lie that makes us realize truth, at least the truth that is given us to understand. The artist must know the manner whereby to convince others of the truthfulness of his lies.” Perhaps later studies can explore if lying is an early indicator of artistic potential.
From Picasso: Fifty Years of His Art by Alfred H. Barr Jr., published for The Museum of Modern Art by Arno Press, New York, 1980.