It is not okay to lie about things.
Chad had broken the vase in his mother's house playing catch with his brother.
Chad wants to tell his mother that the vase is broken.
Chad tells his mother that the vase is broken and that it's partially his fault.
Chad tells his mother that the vase was knocked down by the dog running through the room.
Chad's mother is somewhat upset, but she tells Chad she is proud of him for telling the truth.
Chad's mother finds out what really happened, and she grounds him for a week.