Classic fibs kids tell that all parents will recognise – and little white lies we’ve all told our children

DO you think you can spot when your children tell lies?

If the answer is 'yes,' a new study begs to differ.

Parents only catch their kids lying EIGHT PER CENT of the time, researchers at Brock University in Canada found.

In fact, strangers are up to four times as likely to pick up on fibs than parents.

We've compiled a list of classic cock-and-bull stories - and explain what they really mean - so that next time you can see right through those innocent, puppy dog eyes.

• “I didn’t do it.”
  Oldie but a goodie - applicable to anything and everything.
• “I’ve already brushed my teeth.”
  If you didn’t see it, it didn’t happen.
• “What happened at school?”
  “Nothing.”
  They didn’t talk to anyone or learn anything, just sat at their desk staring blankly ahead.
• “Daddy said I could.”
  Planting internal strife in the parental unit - clever.
• “I feel sick.”
  Which has absolutely nothing to do with the presentation they have to do tomorrow.
• “I need to go pee.”
  Clearly looking for an excuse not to go to bed.
• “I just want one more.”
  One … or 100. And then who has to deal with the sugar rush?
• “I don’t have homework.”
  Just because you say it, doesn’t make it so.
• “It was already like that.”
  Yes, granny’s vase made a suicidal jump off the mantel by itself.
• “If I can have this, I’ll never ask for anything else.”
  This is how they get you - little by little until you’ve spent £250 on a Lego Star Wars set.

But let's not forget, even though parents try their best to be good role models, even you need to fall back on an innocent little excuse once in a while. So don’t judge the little ones too harshly.

• “I won’t tell you again.”
  … Except every other day until I’m blue in the face.
• “Look, I did it!”
  “I know, I saw.”
  After a while, everyone gets a little bored of seeing handstands.
• “I never did that when I was your age.”
  They never need to know. Ever.
• “Tell me the truth. I won’t get mad.”
  Said in a forcedly calm voice and almost always before a massive explosion.
• “I’ll think about it.”
  Translation: I can’t be dealing with this right now.
• “If you’re not ready in five minutes we’ll leave without you.”
  This isn’t Home Alone.
• “We’re almost there.”
  The only words that can prevent a tantrum on a long road trip other than: “Look, McDonalds!”
• “This is delicious.”
  Peanut butter and ham is a great combination. Thanks darling.
• “I’ll tell you when you’re older.”
  I don’t think I’ll ever be comfortable talking to you about this.
• “I would never lie to you.”
  The ultimate lie