What happened: Research involving 750 parents suggests that by around 10 months, some babies engage in simple deceptive behaviours like pretending not to hear or hiding toys. By age three, children tend to tell more creative and frequent lies.
Why it matters:
- Highlights early cognitive development related to understanding others' beliefs and intentions.
- Affects parents and caregivers by revealing when children may start to test social boundaries.
MNN Take: The study indicates that the ability to deceive emerges earlier than previously thought, reflecting normal developmental stages in young children’s social and cognitive skills.
Sources: Guardian UK