How to Know When a Child Can Learn Rules

Babies are not born with the ability to learn rules. Learning right from wrong takes a while, and being able to control their impulses to do the right thing takes even longer. However, if parents are patient and follow some simple rules, the child will learn rules and how to follow them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Watch for signs baby understands words. Baby has to have the cognition to understand words and their meaning before they can learn rules. Once baby understands what her parents are saying, then learning rules can begin.
2. Expect a child to learn rules around a year old. When a baby is about 11 to 12 months old she is developing the ability to know right from wrong. However, at this age, the child often does not have the impulse control to stop behaviors.
3. Expect the child to know and follow most rules around three years of age. Between years one and three, the baby progressively learns more and more. Simple rules can be learned earlier in this range, while more complex rules shouldn't be expected to be learned until later.
4. Set rules from the beginning. Consistency helps the child learn rules more quickly. A child will just become confused if the rules change day to day.
5. Explain things clearly. Be specific as to what behaviors are and are not allowed. Be short in explanations, since small children don't understand lengthy explanations. Keep the explanations simple and to the point, and the child will understand the rule to be followed.