At what age does a baby understand when they are being told off: a detailed exploration of this delicate phase

Understanding at what age a baby begins to perceive and react to parental reprimands is often a source of questions for new mums and dads. This process involves not only the cognitive development of the child, but also the way in which they interpret and internalise the words and actions of the adults around them. In this article, let us examine the key stages in the development of a baby's awareness when faced with reprimands.

Emotional development and recognition of emotions

The first months of life are crucial for a baby's emotional development. From birth, babies begin to recognise facial expressions and the tone of voice of their parents. However, the concept of a reprimand is still far from being understood.

From 0 to 3 months: first perceptions

From the very first days, a baby reacts to the tone of voice and the facial expressions of the adults around them. A gentle tone can be soothing, whilst a louder tone might provoke crying. At this stage, the child does not truly understand words but perceives emotions through sound and expression.

From 3 to 6 months: increased sensitivity to tones of voice

Between three and six months, babies begin to better differentiate different tones of voice. They become more sensitive to the emotional variations of those close to them. For example, a stern or deep tone attracts their attention and may make them calmer or, conversely, more agitated.

Gentle tone: reassures and soothes

Firm tone: attracts attention, without any real understanding of the reprimand

Facial expressions: recognised as expressions of different emotions

The awakening of awareness in babies

From 6 to 9 months: first reactions to authority

When babies reach around six months, the repetition of certain behaviours conditions specific responses. A baby will begin to understand that certain actions provoke a particular reaction from their parents. This is the beginning of an awareness of the consequences of their actions, even if these remain vague.

From 9 to 12 months: beginning to understand parental reactions

Approaching their first birthday, children improve their ability to associate causes and effects. When a parent adopts a firm tone following a certain action, the baby may show signs of realising they have done something "wrong". This period is marked by:

Looking for parental expressions after an action

Attempts to attract positive attention

Better memorisation of events linked to reprimands

From the first to the second birthday: towards a better understanding

From their first year onwards, babies begin to become more aware and alert individuals. Interactions with surrounding objects and people become more complex, and their understanding of terms and words evolves rapidly.

From 12 to 18 months: a rudimentary understanding of reprimands

Between 12 and 18 months, a child begins to develop a certain understanding of the rules established by their parents. When a baby is seen touching a forbidden object, repeated reprimands can guide them to recognise and avoid repeating that action. This all reflects an important step forward in their social and intellectual development.

From 18 to 24 months: first attempts at manipulation and testing limits

At around 18 months, babies not only learn basic rules but also begin to test the limits set for them. When a child does something they know is forbidden and watches the parent's reaction closely, this demonstrates not only an understanding of the rule but also a curiosity about the consequences of their actions.

This period includes:

Conscious reaction to verbal reprimands

Deliberate testing of limits and observation of parental reactions

Gradual adaptation of behaviour in response to reprimands

The importance of words and ongoing interactions

As children approach their second birthday, their vocabulary and ability to understand words expands considerably. Parents then play a crucial role by using specific and consistent phrases to signal a reprimand or to express positive feelings.

Using words to reinforce understanding

During everyday interactions, repeating the same words and expressions helps the child to clearly identify what is permitted and what is not. For example, consistently using the word "no" accompanied by a particular gesture can quickly become recognisable to the baby.

Constant interaction and positive communication

Consistent interactions and positive reinforcement help babies to navigate and understand behavioural expectations. A patient approach, combining firmness with affection, gradually guides the child towards better self-discipline and increased sensitivity to parental guidance.

Thus, throughout these crucial stages of your child's development, maintaining a relationship nourished by understanding, trust, and ongoing dialogue greatly accelerates their ability to grasp the nuances between approval and reprimand.