At what age do children start to think about others before themselves?

[cameroonmama]

My 5.5yo dd is going through a phase where she seems to only be able to think about what she wants and if her younger brother has something/wants something/does something then she wants it or wants to do it first and trys to manipulate or boss him into letting her do it and getting her own way. There is quite a lot of stropping about, which I gather is quite usual at this age, but at what age can children start to empathise, thinking about putting others first and the consequences of their actions? I also have a 3 month old and she is fabulous with him, very helpful and loving.

Some .. never (my DP)

About the age of 60 perhaps??

wandering trolley - thanks for that, i think you are spot on and it is just what I needed to hear. DD really loves to be a 'little mummy' and mimics me trying to boss around her little brother but he is becoming much more independent and happy to make up his own games instead of just playing hers. Also she just adores being at school and gets quite bored quickly when she is not there, you are right in your assumption that she doesnt see her brother that much as well so it may just be her trying to find herself in the family hierachy.

Today has been much better, she has had a friend to play and I tried to give her more attention after the friend had gone. For once she was happy to let the friend choose the movie/which yoghurt she wanted without being prompted. She really is a very special and clever little girl and i feel lucky to have her, I just need to remember that during the more tiring days

By the way Anna I know you weren't trying to be disparaging, no offence taken, good luck in your endeavours!

Pedantifier! Pedantifier!! You're needed here.

Robert Winston said on one of his television programmes, that children cannot feel empathy until the age of thirteen.