How do I teach my child how to share?

Sharing! It's one of the hardest things in the world to teach our little learners how to do - especially toddlers. Simply because they are very egocentric at this age and they think everything is theirs.

I read in a teacher's text book once that an object sitting on the floor or shelf is dormant and not very exciting. An object that is being played with by somebody else is moving and looks alive. The alive toy, of course, is the toy your child wants to play with. It makes perfect sense when you think of it like that, but the tug of war the ensues is not always the easiest thing so resolve.

So with that said, how to we help our little learners share. And what is the parenting etiquette around this? I think it's important we get this sorted, so we can avoid frustration to all parties.

First of all if your child is playing with a toy and another child comes over and says they want a turn, don't tell your child that they have to give it to the other child right then and there because they need to 'share'. That's not fair on your child and it will make them less inclined to share another day. Instead say to your child... "I can see that this boy would like a turn with that car, when you are finished with it you can give it to him?." Then say (or help your child say) to the boy, "I'll give you the car when I'm finished." This way everyone wins. Your child gets to finish their turn, the other child gets the turn they want and everybody learns how to use their words to communicate their wishes. Just make sure you remember to follow through with this and help your child give the toy to the other child when he/she is finished.

On the flip side, if your child goes over to another child and tries to take a toy or use a toy that they are using, support your child to use their words to solve the problem (or if they are too little you can speak for them). They can say "Please can I have a turn when you are finished?" Hopefully the other child is willing to comply. If they are not you could explain to their parent the situation, or you could distract your child with something else fun until the other child is finished.

It's important that our little learners practise both sides of the situation and that all of us parents get on the same page with this. The more parents that are on board with this method the easier life will be for everyone!

Don't forget to use positive and specific verbal praise with your child (or the other child in the situation), if the communicating and the sharing occurs. They need this feedback to know that they are doing the right thing and should continue with this next time.

If you have a specific sharing scenario that you would like clarification on, then feel free to email me at parentinglittlelearners@gmail.com

Or visit www.paerntinglittlelearners.com to

MAKE PARENTING EASIER!

Kirsty xoxo