Toddler Sharing Basket Practice
Fill a basket with appealing toys and practice handing them back and forth with your toddler — a gentle introduction to sharing.
What You'll Need
- 1Small basket or container
- 25-6 appealing toys or interesting objects
What You'll Need
A small basket or container
5-6 appealing toys or objects your toddler enjoys (soft animals, cars, blocks, balls)
How to Play
Fill the basket with toys and sit on the floor facing your toddler.
Pick up one toy, show it off, and hand it to your toddler: "Here, this is for you!"
Let them hold and enjoy it for a moment.
Gently ask, "Can I have a turn?" and extend your open hand with a smile.
If they hand it over, celebrate: "Thank you for sharing! That was so kind of you."
Play with it briefly, then give it back: "Your turn again!"
Repeat with different items from the basket. Keep rounds short and pressure-free.
Why It Works
True sharing is actually quite advanced — most toddlers aren't developmentally ready to share willingly until age 3 or older. But what you can start now is the back-and-forth rhythm of "my turn, your turn." This isn't about forcing generosity. It's about making the exchange feel safe and fun. When toddlers learn that giving something away doesn't mean losing it forever, sharing becomes much less scary.
Tips
If your toddler says no or clings to a toy, respect that. Say "Okay, you're not ready. That's fine." No pressure.
Start with toys they're mildly interested in, not their absolute favorites. Build up gradually.
Always return the toy quickly at first. This builds trust that sharing isn't permanent loss.
Model the language: "I'm sharing my cracker with you" at snack time reinforces the concept naturally.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does this activity take?
This activity takes about 10 min, with 5 min of preparation time beforehand.
What materials do I need?
You'll need: small basket or container, 5-6 appealing toys or interesting objects.
What age is this activity for?
This activity is designed for 1-2 years. You can adapt it for younger or older children by adjusting the complexity.
Can this be done indoors?
This activity is designed for indoor play, making it perfect for rainy days or when you're staying inside.
How difficult is this activity?
This is an easy activity that requires minimal setup and supervision. Great for busy days or when you need something quick.
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