Tips on Teaching Toddlers to Care and Share

Tips on Teaching Toddlers to Care and Share

Most parents want to raise their children to be kind and caring. They want their children to freely share and get along with their friends. Although some kids have a naturally gentle spirit, most need parents to teach them these character traits. This article will give you moms and dads some tips on how to get started early and teach your toddler to care and share.

First, parents need to model these examples themselves. The old saying "Do what I say, not what I do" is poppycock. Kids pay attention to their parent's actions. They will follow your lead. Try to use your life examples and point out the times you are sharing or doing a deed to show care to others. Having examples from you will help your toddler understand the concept much easier.

Second, teach your child sharing words. Tell them, "Let's take turns" or "Would you like a try". This will help them communicate with their peers.

Third, Don't expect your child to understand sharing the first time you introduce it to them. It will take a few times for them to catch on. That is why it is important for you to start out modeling it for them and work on teaching them the language. Just practice patience with your child and persistence until they understand.

Fourth, Once your child begins sharing or showing care to another toddler, you need to reward them. Not with a prize, but with verbal recognition. Tell them exactly what they did that was good and that you are proud of them. If they don't understand the word proud, say "Mommy is so happy you shared your toy with Emma". If you child gets no verbal recognition that what they are doing is right, they may not see any point in continuing to do it.

Fifth, Make sure all family members are on the same page. Get big brothers and sisters involved. Make it fun. Practice some exercises with your older children by having them put on a sharing play or a play about showing care to another. Have your older children model sharing with your toddler. Toddlers will look up to their siblings so this could be an excellent place to start.