According to a recent study from Duke University, kids between ages 3 and 5 have the ability to discern which excuses are worthy of forgiveness and which are not. The study found that children are more understanding if the excuse involves helping another person, rather than a self-centered excuse.

The researchers conducted the experiment with puppets and found that all 64 children agreed that breaking a promise was wrong, but were more forgiving when the puppet offered an excuse of helping a friend with homework. The study revealed that kids are aware of what is considered a legitimate excuse and are not likely to hold a grudge against the puppet for breaking its promise.

Overall, the study shows that young children have the ability to understand what is considered a legitimate excuse and that moms should be mindful of the type of apology they give. It's important to remember that kids are attuned to what is considered a good excuse and that prioritizing others over oneself is the best way to show empathy and understanding.

Read the full article here [via CNBC]