Sharing with Toddlers

Mine! Mine! Mine! Toddlers are not notorious for sharing, and sometimes seem to only want a toy if someone else is playing with it. It is important to foster sharing in toddlers when they are young so that they may form positive relationships with peers and siblings. Try a multi-faceted approach to instill this in your toddler.
Teach by example
Toddlers learn by following what others do. They will learn to share if you show them. For instance, get a dessert and then share some with them. Talk about what you are doing and why it makes you happy. For example, say, “Would you like some of my ice cream? It makes me feel so good to share with you.”
Talk to them about sharing
Kids may not realize that sharing benefits them as well. Talk to them about how you feel good when you share with others. It means that others will share with you. As toddlers age, you can talk more in depth about this concept.
Read books about sharing
There are many excellent books that teach about sharing. Sharing Time (Toddler Tools) by Elizabeth Verdick and Marieka Heinlen is a well-reviewed book that teaches toddlers this important skill. There are many other books aimed at different age levels. When children read about kids who share, they may take on the behaviors themselves.
Videos about sharing
Many of the popular educational shows also deal with sharing. Barney teaches that “sharing is caring.” Dora the Explorer and many of the other popular television shows for this age group deal with sharing on a regular basis. These educational programs can help kids see its benefits.
Encourage them to practice sharing
Prompt your children to share. For instance, when you share your ice cream with them, then ask if they will share with you. Whenever they do share, give them heaps of praise. You can purchase something to share. For instance, if you buy your child a bag of stickers, ask if he or she wants to give some to his or her friends. Take them with you when you go, and make a big deal of how nice it is to share them.
Put them in social situations
Children can’t share if there is no one to share with. Take toddlers to playgroups and friends’ houses so they can interact with other children. Encourage them to share their toys when others come over.
Sharing is an important skill to teach your children, and toddlers are not too young to learn. When they do not share, gently remind them of its importance. With work you can raise altruistic children who will form positive relationships.