Research has documented the development of kind behavior in children. Although there are differences in how and how often children act kindly toward others, almost all children go through a set sequence of developing kind and caring behavior. For example, some children may cry harder than others when a friend's cat is hit by a car, but almost all children will recognize this as a very sad situation. 8 to 18 Months Child can understand that own behavior can make another happy or sad. If I make a silly face at Andrew, he will smile and laugh.
Child can understand adult instructions for kind behavior when words are combined with actions.
Child can understand and imitate adult behavior. 2 to 3 Years Child begins to show empathic behavior. Child may spontaneously comfort a crying peer. Child complies more often with adult requests, especially adult requests for socially responsible behavior. 4 to 6 Years Child starting to recognize concept of fairness.