We have always been taught that sharing is caring. But toddlers, especially those without siblings, may find it difficult to share their food, toys or anything for that matter. Sharing is an important life skill because as your toddler gets exposed to other children, they will have to share with other children so that they are not considered selfish. Also, when you teach your child to share from early on in life, they will carry through that spirit with them to adulthood. It’s not easy to teach a toddler to share but it can be learnt through teaching and practice.
Simple ways to show your tot how to share:
Start early
The best thing you can do help your child understand the concept of sharing is by taking your little one’s favourite toy or rattle right from babyhood. Give her the rattle to shake, then take it, shake it yourself and give it back to her. By taking turns you are teaching your baby that they can share and have fun. Continue this practice as they grow and remember to shower them with lots of praise when she shares with you. This will motivate your child to share often and as much as possible.
Set an example
Action speaks louder than words. You can’t expect your child to share with you if you’re not willing to share your own things. Some things are unsafe or precious, but let her play with your keys, drink from your cup or try on your shoes. When you prepare a sandwich, for example, give your child from your plate to illustrate that you are not eating alone but you are sharing. Do this as much as you can and watch how your little one wants to start sharing their food with you.
Make family time share time
Make sharing a family affair and a value in your household. While your little one plays with her dolls, ask her if mom and dad can play too. If she refuses, move away for a little bit and try again later. This will teach her that sharing leads to more engagement and fun play.
Be prepared
You might have attempted everything to show your child the benefits of sharing but they still don’t get it. If your tot refuses to share her favourite toys with you, chances are very slim that she’ll be willing to share them with other kids. Put all your tot’s favourite toys away when friends come over for a play date and have a box of toys that everyone can play with. Remind your child that it’s nice to play and share with others. If she refuses to share even that box of toys, let her know that all the toys will be taken away if she doesn’t share. This will teach her that selfishness allows no fulfilment. For your child to get used to sharing, it needs to be something that you do all time to drive the message home.
