I ask this question because this morning I was sitting on the floor picking out something for my 5 year old to wear and she has this really heavy antique dresser. When I tried to close the drawer I slammed the very tips of my fingers in there so I hard I saw stars. I yelled then immediately started crying. (I usually don't do that but it really hurt!) Anyway, my 5 year old girl and 3 year old boy just sat there and went on about their business. Not even a care. I mean I know they are young and all but I expected some type of reaction. As sad as this is to say, because I know I am the adult and they are the kids, but it really hurt my feelings. When do kids develop compassion/sympathy/empathy?
My youngest son is 3 1/2 and everytime he hears a baby crying or someone crying he will start crying. He is also on the Autsim Spectrum. I'm not sure if it's cause of that that he shows it at a young age but he's been doing that since he was about 8 or 9 months when he ist started showing empathy.
Maybe you can talk to to them and show them and explain to them. Ask them how did they feel when mommy was crying?
I hope this helps.
Michele
We noticed it at about 2. He'll get his feelings hurt or feel bad for someone else. I think at least by 5 they should have it. Ask the pediatrician next time you go. That would hurt my feelings too!