Teaching An Only Child The Importance Of Sharing

An only child could be considered a very lucky child when it comes to toys. After all, they are all his. He doesn’t have to worry about a little brother or sister stealing, breaking, or losing his toy. He knows where his toys are and he knows that they are all his. He doesn’t have to share.
But what happens when cousins or friends come to visit? Suddenly there are little hands all over his toys. If your little one has not been taught how to share there will soon be a total meltdown.
Parents of only children often forget that sharing is an issue that simply has to be addressed. Even if your child never participates in play dates or has visitors, there will come a day that he has to share. It is up to the parents to make sure he knows how.
By playing with your only child and showing an interest in his toys you are teaching him that it is okay for other people to play with his stuff. Even if you really do not want the toy he is currently playing with, kindly ask if you can borrow it. Reward him for sharing, and explain the importance of it when he is not so willing.
By addressing the issue of sharing before there is an issue, you are saving yourself and your little one lots of headaches and awkward moments in the future. Good luck!