Why can’t parents just put their hands on their baby’s mouth to stop them from making loud noises when crying in movie theatres and airplanes?

Question

I have always wondered this but never wanted to directly ask a parent as it could come off rude.

It makes sense to me though, like when people cover each other’s mouth’s in movies to muffle whatever sound they’re making.

Edit: I would just like to say that I would never try this, I was just curious!

In: Biology

Answer 1

Because an adult would understand if you put a hand over their mouth you’re trying to ask them to be quiet, and they should oblige (usually, unless they’re in mortal danger). A baby or small child does not understand this, does not understand social graces, and does not care if other people don’t want to hear what they have to say. In other words, shutting up when someone puts a hand over your mouth is learned behaviour.