Medically reviewed to ensure accuracy.
When your toddler claims everything as “Mine!”
and demands “Me first!”
it’s time to start teaching that all-important social skill known as sharing.
Here’s how and when that sharing spirit will develop.
They now get that things belong to them but they can’t quite grasp that some things don’t.
And don’t forget about your youngster’s burgeoning independence and constant pushing of boundaries.
(“Who says I can’t have this?!")
Refusing to share is just one more way she’s testing you and your authority.
When do kids learn to share?
Ask her how she would feel if someone grabbed her sandbox shovel or hogged the crayons.
Your kind words will work a whole lot better than shame or threats ever could.
Expect resistance, but do loop back and try (and again).
Instead, ask her permission before offering her toy to a playmate.
If she says no, don’t push her just have another go periodically until she decides to share.
When she does misbehave, criticize her behavior, not her.
By helping her feel more secure, it’s possible for you to help curb her hoarding habits.
Explain that you’re sharing something that’s yours because you want to.
you’re free to also play turn-taking games together to drive the sharing message home.
Explain that when the bell rings, it’s time to switch toys.
For one thing, by sharing her doll, she can check out her pal’s dinosaur.
An added bonus: Tell her how proud you’ll be if she cooperates.
