Toddlers - Sharer or Mine-collector

Sharing is caring when it comes to a toddler, that is as long as You’re the one sharing. My little man is going through a things are mine stage. To the point that he even says mine for most things. My Mummy, my Daddy or my Jono (really trying to get him out of calling Daddy by his name at the moment), my Sukie (one of our dogs), my giraffe, my book, my car etc.

It is cute when he says it, but not so cute when he has gathered a collection of things that are apparently ‘mine’. It doesn’t leave much else for anyone else. It’s a stage, all part of a developmental process, one of those this too shall pass moments. While Zavier at this stage is an only child, it doesn't really make a huge difference at home. That doesn't mean to say we shouldn't be encouraging him to share. Sharing is a skill children need for play and learning through childhood. They need to learn that they can’t have everything and that not everything is theirs.

It is something I have noticed in families with only one child or even in youngest children of families with older siblings, they are less inclined to share with others (because from what I can gather they don’t normally have to). I have been guilty on several occasions (when Zavier has had friends or cousins over) of saying – it’s ok, you can play with that anytime, let someone else have a turn. Toddlers have a habit of thinking the world revolves around them., it’s not in their nature to share. Like most things with children it is something we need to teach them and encourage them to do. Like all things with children we need to lead by example. The great saying – tell me and I’ll forget, show me and I’ll remember, involve me and I’ll understand quote comes to mind.

The more children interact with others, the more they learn. There may be a few meltdowns along the way, but they will get the hang of sharing eventually. Even adults don’t want to share sometimes.

Is your child a sharer or a mine-collector? Are there things as an adult You would rather not share, the hidden block of chocolate perhaps?

xo Vanessa


Author Bio - Vanessa  - is a Blogging Mum, Social Media Marketing Assistant, Avon Sales Representative and occasional Candy Buffet/Event Stylist. But most importantly... Mum to a cheeky little redhead monkey (not literally), and wife to a wonderful husband. For more from Vanessa, head to her blog:  www.pinkbutterfliesblogspot.wordpress.com  

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