Sharing can be hard to do. I know I find it difficult to share some of my things so I understand how hard it can be for a child. We have trouble sharing because we fear the other person will break it or lose it or even keep it. The fear is that we will lose that thing we hold dear. It may not always be out of selfishness that a child does not share. It can be fear or because an object is dear to him. It is okay to have things we do not share. However, our overall attitude should be a sharing heart.
Showing respect is a big part of sharing. Here are some ways to teach your child to give respect, get respect, and to share happily.
Always ask if you can play with something that belongs to someone else. If you do not have permission then do not play with it.
When you borrow something always say thank the person for giving you permission.
Treat the item you borrow with respect. Do not do anything with the item that could destroy it or tarnish it. Treat it better than your own toys.
Give it back in a reasonable amount of time. If you say you will give back the bike after going up the sidewalk one time then give it back after one time. You must do as you say.
When you give the item back thank the person again for their kindness.
Do not ask the person to borrow something more than once. If the child says no then leave it at no. No begging, bribing, or grabbing. It is okay to have some things to yourself.
Role Play
A great way to reinforce these rules is to role play with your child. It will give your child plenty of experience and make sharing much easier.
Preschool Etiquette: Proper Introductions
Preschool Etiquette: What is Etiquette?
Preschool Etiquette: Being Kind