If we're having friends over, I have the kids put away their special toys. I don't make them share them. If it's just my three and there's an issue about a toy we will often set a timer and take turns or if it's the youngest having problems, distraction works great. The older ones have learned that the youngest only plays with something for 5 minutes before he's onto something else anyway and will often let it ride until he's done, then go get their toy back. My DD is a master at getting the youngest distracted with other toys and activities and they will often play side by side in happy harmony.
I think that kids having their own special toys they don't have to share can help to teach them how to care for and value something special. New toys are not sharable items unless the child wants to. As they're getting older, they're learning that it's more fun to play together than on their own.
I think that kids having their own special toys they don't have to share can help to teach them how to care for and value something special. New toys are not sharable items unless the child wants to. As they're getting older, they're learning that it's more fun to play together than on their own.
