If you’ve ever found yourself caught between a tug-of-war over a toy truck, you’re not alone. Sharing is a big ask for little people - but it’s also an essential social skill that grows with time, guidance, and practice.
At Papilio Early Learning, we understand that toddlers (aged 1–3) and preschoolers/kindergarteners (aged 3–5) are still learning how to navigate their emotions, express themselves, and connect with others. Sharing and turn-taking don’t happen overnight - but with gentle support, they become natural parts of everyday play.
Whether you’re a parent juggling a toddler and a kindy child - or simply wondering how to teach your little one to wait for a turn - here’s what you need to know.
Why Sharing Is Hard (and Totally Normal)
If you’ve ever found yourself caught between a tug-of-war over a toy truck, you’re not alone. Sharing is a big ask for little people - but it’s also an essential social skill that grows with time, guidance, and practice.
At Papilio Early Learning, we understand that toddlers (aged 1–3) and preschoolers/kindergarteners (aged 3–5) are still learning how to navigate their emotions, express themselves, and connect with others. Sharing and turn-taking don’t happen overnight - but with gentle support, they become natural parts of everyday play.
Whether you’re a parent juggling a toddler and a kindy child - or simply wondering how to teach your little one to wait for a turn - here’s what you need to know.
How to Teach Sharing and Turn-Taking (Without the Power Struggles)
1. Encourage Side-by-Side Play
This is perfect for toddlers who are still learning the basics of social interaction. Let them build, stack, or draw next to a sibling or friend with their own toys. It builds comfort around others without expecting immediate cooperation.
2. Narrate the Sharing Moments
Use simple, kind language to describe what’s happening in the moment:
-
“Gordon is using the red truck. When he’s finished, you can have a turn.”
-
“You gave your sister a block - how kind of you!”
Children learn so much from hearing us model respectful language.
3. Use a Visual Timer for Turn-Taking
Preschoolers love having something concrete to help them understand time. A timer gives children reassurance that they will get their turn - and helps reduce meltdowns. You can try a colourful sand timer, a small kitchen timer, or even a free child-friendly timer app on your phone. The key is that they can see time passing.
4. Celebrate the Small Wins
When your child shares without being asked or waits patiently for a turn, shine a light on it:
-
“I saw you pass the ball to Yatra. That was so thoughtful!”
-
“You waited so patiently - thank you!”
Acknowledging kindness helps it grow.
5. Read Books That Teach Sharing
Reading together helps children see familiar challenges through the eyes of a storybook friend. Some great options include:
-
Llama Llama Time to Share by Anna Dewdney
-
Should I Share My Ice Cream? by Mo Willems
-
Share and Take Turns by Cheri J. Meiners
-
It’s Mine by the Quirky Kid Clinic
How We Support Sharing at Papilio
At Papilio, sharing and turn-taking are gently embedded into our everyday routines - through collaborative play, group experiences, and social interactions led by nurturing educators.
In our exclusive Lifelong Learning Curriculum, children are supported in developing social and emotional skills like empathy, kindness, and cooperation. These lessons aren’t separate - they’re woven into playtime, storytime, and even mealtimes.
👉 Explore our Lifelong Learning Curriculum
We also recognise that each child learns these skills in their own time. Whether your little one is just learning to play alongside others, or confidently offering toys to friends, our educators meet them where they’re at.
Raising More Than One Little Learner?
If you have a toddler and a preschooler at home, you’ll know how different their needs - and their reactions - can be. What works for one may not work for the other, and that’s okay.
At Papilio, we partner with families through every stage. Whether you're navigating early toddlerhood or preparing for school, we’re here to support your child’s development - and your parenting journey.
Ready to Find a Centre That Supports Social Growth?
Papilio Early Learning centres can be found in communities across Australia - from Point Cook to Pitt Town, Rosebery to Reedy Creek, and many more. Our educators are passionate about creating safe, caring environments where every child can thrive.
Final Thought
Sharing isn’t always easy - but it’s one of the most important skills your child will learn. With encouragement, patience, and the right support, your little one will begin to understand the joy of giving, the value of waiting, and the beauty of playing together.