How to Teach a Toddler to Share

Sharing can be difficult for little ones, especially if they've never had a brother or sister to help them learn. Teaching a toddler to share can be challenging, but well worth the effort invested. This article will help you help your toddler learn to share their toys, making them more popular at playgroups and outings. So, grab a playmate and get ready to help your toddler learn this important skill.

Instructions

Introduce Parallel Play

1. Toddlers often play side by side ,but rarely interact with each other in the manner that older children do. Encourage parallel play by allowing the two toddlers to play with toys in the same general area.

2. Carefully observe your toddler for signs of greediness or aggression as the children play.

3. If your toddler grabs the other child's toy, hits, or displays other aggressive behavior, redirect them as necessary. Explain in simple terms that sharing is nice, while hitting is not. Demonstrate sharing behaviors with the other parent, using role play.

4. As your child begins to share with their playmate, praise them and again emphasize why sharing is fun.

Tips & Warnings

• Sharing practice works best for short time periods of ten to fifteen minutes.

• Avoid practicing sharing skills when your toddler is tired, cranky, or teething, as this sets them up for failure.