1. Start Small
A child does not truly understand the concept of sharing until about age 5. However, a child can be taught to understand some basic rules. such as waiting your turn ('she goes, then you go'), if you walk away from a toy it is open for anyone else to play with, and if you bring your toy to a playdate, then everyone there gets to play with it,.
2. Time it
Set a timer to his playtime with the toy. Let your child know that he’ll get to play with it for 10 minutes, and when the timer goes off, it’s his brother’s turn to play with for 10 minutes. This will show your child how to take turns and let him know that giving up his toy is just temporary.
3. Keep the special toys aside
Similar to adults, your child might have some prized possession that he doesn’t want to hand to others. If there is a special toy or item that he really loves, don’t force him to share it! But make sure he understands that those items can’t be brought out if he doesn’t want to share.
4. Set an example
Kids pay close attention to what you do! So let them see you in the act of sharing. If you’re eating a cookie, ask him if he’d like a bite. You and your partner should also make it a point to show your child how to share, whether it’s taking turns choosing what movie to watch or sharing space in the kitchen!
5. Sort out the toys
It is completely normal for your child to have toy envy. If he sees his friend playing with a toy, he will suddenly want it too. To avoid this, consider setting a theme when you have kids over. It can be a farm or colour theme, so that all kiddos are playing with the same type of toys.
6. Be part of charity
Get your child involved in donating his least used toys to the less fortunate. Explain to them who is for and what a great deed he is doing.
7. Praise the positive!
We spend so much time reminding them to behave, it's easy to forget to offer applause when your child does exactly what you want him to do. Still, don't forget to praise him when he does share with someone -- whether you had to remind him to do it or not. Let him know how happy you are to see him being so nice to his friend or sibling, and also point out that he's made that other child very happy.
8. Expose them to more playdates
Just being around other little ones and interacting during play can be a lesson in sharing, so be sure that your child is used to being around other children his age as early on as possible. Having a regular set of playmates over the years will encourage trust among friends. As your child develops that sense of trust, he will be more likely to share with others.
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