If your child is entering preschool soon, you might have concerns about their ability to share. After all, kids are naturally territorial when it comes to toys and other objects. The following tips offer parents fun and creative ways to introduce sharing and show their children the value of generosity.

Teach Your Toddler to Share Using These 5 Tips

1. Use a Timer

Give your child a specific amount of time, say ten minutes, to play with a toy. When the timer goes off, let another child play for the same amount of time. Timed play will establish the give and take of sharing in a tangible way.

2. Play a Game

By making sharing a game, you’ll establish it as a fun activity. For instance, create a role-playing game where your child earns rewards for sharing their belongings.

3. Set an Example

Be generous with the people in your life to set a good example. Your child will mimic these behaviors, as kids often take after mom and dad. When sharing, explain to your child what you’re doing and why.

4. Offer Praise

Positive reinforcement can be very motivating for kids. When your child shares willingly, be sure to offer ample compliments on their behavior and make sure you're explicit about the reasons you’re praising them.

5. Set Up a Play Date

Put your lessons into practice by arranging a play date for your child with others. Playing with other kids mimics the type of environment your child will experience in preschool, where sharing is a crucial part of socializing. If your child is reluctant, remind them of how happy sharing will make their friends.

A good preschool program will provide your child with important lessons on sharing and other developmental milestones. Because of the quality of their instructors, many parents in Lexington, KY, trust Big Blue Bird Early Childhood Center for their child’s early education. With more than four decades serving local kids and their families, this preschool and daycare center has received high marks from the Better Business Bureau and Kentucky’s STARS for KIDS NOW program, which rates child care centers for quality. You can visit them online to learn more about programs offered. If you’d like to have your child enrolled, call (859) 299-9277 today to get the process started.