Instruction on Effectively Teaching Sharing to Your Child, as Perceived by an Authority
Young children are developing neurological pathways when they play, a process that requires time and practice. One of the essential skills they need to learn is sharing, which can be challenging due to their cognitive capacity and the still-developing prefrontal cortex. However, with patience and the right strategies, young children can learn to share effectively.
A combination of structured role-play, positive language, patience-building, clear rules, and modeling through real-world examples like sharing food creates a supportive environment for teaching young children to share.
Role-playing social situations where children practice sharing, such as taking turns or helping peers, allows them to rehearse sharing behavior in a safe, low-pressure environment. Puppets, storybooks, and dramatic play can facilitate this process by making the concept of sharing concrete and relatable.
Changing language to use positive, encouraging words helps children understand and internalize sharing behaviors. For example, framing sharing as a way to help a friend or make others happy supports empathy development.
Encouraging waiting by teaching patience before a turn or to share a toy builds impulse control and respect for others’ needs. Structured routines and clear expectations about waiting can support this skill.
Setting clear rules about sharing during group activities fosters predictable behavior. Involving children in co-creating rules increases their sense of agency and adherence.
Modeling sharing, including through food, demonstrates sharing in a real-life and motivating context. Sharing snacks or treats can be a strong social cue that reinforces sharing’s value and enjoyment.
Teaching through play, such as role-playing with stuffed animals or puppets, can help children learn sharing skills. Physically moving with children to check out toys or play can help them learn to wait for their turn.
Discussing and setting expectations for guests when they come over can help children learn to share and respect others' belongings. Encouraging children to put away special toys before playdates can help prevent disputes over possessions.
It's essential to remember that every child has a unique personality, and some may need help learning to be assertive in sharing situations. Understanding that a child's refusal to share does not mean they will be forever selfish.
The concept of sharing is a practice that needs to be taught over and over. Changing the language from "sharing" to "taking turns" can help children understand the concept better and plant the seeds for problem-solving. Preparing children for playdates by discussing expectations and role-playing potential scenarios can help them learn to share effectively.
Sources:
[1] Goldstein, J. M., & Wagner, L. (2010). The role of food in social interaction: A review of the literature. Appetite, 54(3), 561-568.
[2] Eisenberg, N., & Fabes, R. A. (1992). Impulse control in young children: Developmental issues and individual differences. Psychological Bulletin, 112(2), 262-283.
[3] Rubin, K. H., Bukowski, W. M., & Laursen, B. (2006). Peer conflicts in childhood: An interpersonal approach. Guilford Press.
[4] Katz, L. F., & Frodi, A. C. (1978). The development of social rules among children. Child Development, 49(2), 489-496.
- Preschool and school activities play a crucial role in children's learning, including the development of sharing, a skill that requires practice and patience.
- As young kids grow, they can learn the importance of sharing through structured role-plays, positive language, and modeled examples.
- Puppets, storybooks, and dramatic play can make the concept of sharing concrete and relatable for toddlers and children.
- Using words like "help a friend" or "make others happy" instead of the direct phrase "sharing" encourages empathy development in children.
- Teaching patience through structured routines and rules about taking turns can help kids control their impulses and respect others' needs.
- Bringing lessons from education-and-self-development and health-and-wellness into parenting serves to shape a child's lifestyle, fostering healthy behavior and habits.
- Role-playing sharing scenarios with their peers aids children in rehearsing and practicing appropriate behavior in various social situations.
- Modeling sharing in everyday activities, such as sharing food and treats, can demonstrate the value and enjoyment of being generous, reinforcing this behavior in children.
