Shakin Bones Time…. Where did we get the idea that children
who Share are better than children who decide not to Share?
Statements like, “We Share Our Toys in School” is in
contradiction to the belief and practice that young children are
very egocentric. Being egocentric does not mean they are
selfish, it means they don't often recognize that others have the
same needs and requests that they have. So not sharing is
more of a practice then sharing. Young children need to feel
that they “own it” before they are willing to consider giving it
up. So rather then “We Share Our Toys in School”, consider
making this statement, “You decide if you want to give it up”.
Usually the question from adults is, “At What age do children
start sharing?” The simple answer is, when they recognize the
needs and interests of others. Do you know adults who are not
there yet?