How to Know When a Baby Understands "No"

Parents often wonder when babies will understand "No." Most babies respond to the word as if it's a game, laughing and repeating the action, much to the parent's annoyance. However, babies don't fully understand "No" until they're well into the toddler years, and even then, they can't resist temptation to be trusted alone. Around three-years-old is when children understand the concept of "No," and can be trusted to obey. Read on to learn how to know when a baby understands "No."

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Watch for signs that baby understands around six months--the earliest a baby will understand what "No" means. At this age, baby won't respond to the request by stopping the behavior entirely, but he may stop momentarily in response to the word.
2. Understand that most babies don't respond to "No" until they are 12 to 18 months old. Around this age, baby should stop what he is doing in response. However, a baby's impulse control is not very good at this age, so he is likely to repeat actions, even if he knows he shouldn't.
3. Explain why, instead of just saying "No." The tone of voice used will help baby understand what behavior is undesired. For instance, tell the baby the stove is hot, and that trash is yucky, so that he can understand why "No" is important.
4. Create an area where the child can play safely. Having a room where the baby can play eliminates the need to tell her "No" constantly.
5. Baby-proof dangerous things. By using safety gates, electrical outlet covers and doorknob covers, baby won't have to hear "No" as often. Anything baby shouldn't touch should be out of her reach.