07/11/2022
At around the age of 3 children can understand turn taking but they may not be able to consistently share till around school age. Don't force toddlers to share; it actually delays the development of sharing skills. Kids need to feel secure in their ownership before they can share. Instead, introduce the concept of taking turns. (“It's Billy's turn to use the car. Then it will be your turn. I'll help you wait.").
Sharing is something that needs to be taught, but never forced. Learning to share is a process and it starts with turn taking. When children learn that taking turns doesn't mean they lose the toy, they will feel safe to share. With young children you could hug a toy and then give it to them to hug. Or roll a ball to them. Make sure you are saying "my turn, your turn" so they understand the concept. If they find this particularly difficult you can use a timer so the turn has an end.
Older children can practice turn taking by playing board games or card games. It is helpful to point out that games are more fun when we share.
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