When toddlers have play dates, territorial battles are bound to ensue. To foster sharing skills in young children, consider these 12 tips:
1. Start early.
Children can’t cognitively grasp the concept of sharing until they reach the developmental age of 3 or 4, but parents should set the expectation and foster learning opportunities early on.
2. Show and tell.
Children often imitate what they see others doing. When you have opportunities to share food, a toy or another activity with your child, talk about how you are sharing so he begins to associate the word with the action.
3. Pretend play.
Imaginative play can provide powerful lessons in sharing. Place a puppet in each hand and have them discuss and act out sharing scenes. Then invite your child to join in. Tea parties and play kitchens are good platforms too.
4. Read books.
Read children’s stories about sharing then talk about past experiences: “Do you remember when you shared your toy with Eli yesterday? That’s what the children
