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Encouraging Sharing in Toddlers: Helpful Phrases and Strategies
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
To encourage sharing, parents can teach toddlers phrases like, 'Can I have a turn next?' or 'I like sharing with you.' Alternatives include using phrases that express feelings and requests such as, 'I don’t like it when you take my toys' or 'Let’s take turns playing with this.' These phrases help toddlers develop social skills and emotional literacy.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 11. Use calm, simple language to acknowledge your toddler’s feelings when they resist sharing.
- 22. Teach and model specific phrases like 'Can I have a turn next?' and encourage your child to use them.
- 33. Praise your toddler immediately when they share or use words to express their needs.
What to say
- “I see you want to play with that toy. Can I have a turn next?”
- “It’s okay to feel upset. We take turns so everyone gets a chance.”
- “Thank you for sharing your toy with your friend! That was very kind.”
What to practice consistently
- Regularly narrate your toddler’s feelings and experiences during calm moments to build emotional awareness.
- Consistently use and encourage sharing phrases during playdates or sibling interactions.
- Model calm responses to frustration and avoid reacting with anger or impatience.
What to avoid
- Forcing sharing without acknowledging your child’s feelings, which can increase resistance.
- Reacting with anger or frustration, which models poor emotional regulation.
- Ignoring your toddler’s attempts to communicate their needs verbally.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- Using short, clear phrases that name feelings and requests to build emotional literacy (ZERO TO THREE)
- Modeling calm, neutral responses to frustration to teach emotional regulation (Child Mind Institute)
- Setting simple, consistent limits with empathy, such as 'I won’t let you hit, but I’m here with you' (ZERO TO THREE)
- Teaching specific sharing phrases like 'Can I have a turn next?' to encourage negotiation and conflict resolution (American Academy of Pediatrics)
- Praising effort and positive social behavior to reinforce sharing and cooperation (Child Mind Institute)
- Allowing toddlers to practice sharing in low-pressure situations and narrating their experiences
Related questions
Teach simple calming strategies like deep breaths or asking for a break, and model calm emotional responses.
Praise effort and process, such as 'You waited your turn nicely,' rather than fixed traits.
Step in if conflicts become physical or emotionally harmful; otherwise, allow children to try resolving minor disputes themselves.
Related articles on Parent.wiki
Effective Phrases to Teach Toddlers for Encouraging Sharing
Teaching toddlers to share involves using simple, clear phrases that acknowledge their feelings while encouraging turn-taking and cooperation. Phrases that express empathy and set gentle limits help toddlers learn social skills and emotional regulation during sharing moments.
Effective Phrases to Encourage Sharing in Toddlers
Teaching toddlers to share involves using simple, clear phrases that acknowledge their feelings while encouraging turn-taking and empathy. Phrases that express understanding and set gentle limits help toddlers learn social skills and manage frustration during sharing.
How to Encourage Sharing in Toddlers
Teaching toddlers to share involves helping them develop emotional regulation, communication skills, and empathy through consistent modeling and guided practice. Using simple language, setting clear limits, and praising positive sharing behaviors can support toddlers as they learn to navigate social interactions.
How to Teach Toddlers the Skill of Sharing
Teaching toddlers to share involves helping them develop emotional regulation, communication skills, and empathy through consistent modeling and guided practice. Using simple language, setting clear limits, and encouraging turn-taking are effective strategies to foster sharing behavior in young children.
From around the web
Helping Your Toddler Learn to Share
Practical advice on teaching toddlers to share and take turns.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Building Emotional Literacy in Toddlers
Resources on narrating feelings and supporting emotional development.
ZERO TO THREE
Helping Children Manage Frustration
Strategies for teaching children calming techniques and emotional regulation.
Child Mind Institute
Sibling Rivalry and Conflict Resolution
Guidance on when to intervene in sibling disputes and how to teach conflict resolution.
American Academy of Pediatrics