How to Teach Young Children About Generosity and Sharing
Sharing and generosity don’t always come naturally to young children—but they are powerful skills that help build empathy, friendship, and a spirit of giving. Teaching young kids to share and think of others isn’t about forcing them—it’s about showing them how good it feels to give, and helping them build the emotional skills they need to share joyfully.
Why Teaching Generosity Matters
- Builds empathy and kindness
- Strengthens friendships and community
- Teaches respect for others’ feelings
- Fosters gratitude and emotional connection
- Encourages a giving, caring attitude
Option 1: Model and Celebrate Everyday Acts of Sharing
Activity Idea:
Offer chances to share during daily life:
- “Would you like to share some crayons with your brother?”
- “Let’s share these cookies with our neighbors!”
Notice and praise sharing immediately: “That was so generous of you!”
What Kids Learn:
- Sharing brings joy to others and themselves
- They are capable of giving kindness
- That generosity is valued and celebrated
Tool Suggestion:
Create a “Sharing Stars” chart to track generous moments throughout the week.
Option 2: Use Storytelling and Pretend Play About Giving
Activity Idea:
Read stories where characters share with others and discuss how it made everyone feel.
Use pretend play: set up a pretend birthday party or tea party where toys must share treats, toys, or space.
Talk about emotions after sharing: “How did it feel to share your favorite toy with your friend?”
What Kids Learn:
- Emotional rewards of generosity
- Practical skills for sharing in social settings
- That generosity strengthens relationships
Book Suggestion:
The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister — a classic story about sharing and the happiness it brings.
Other Ways to Teach Generosity
- Model generosity daily: Let your child see you share food, time, or kindness
- Involve them in giving: Pick out food to donate, draw pictures for nursing home residents, or bake cookies for a friend
- Talk about needs and feelings: “When we share, we make others feel loved and included.”
- Normalize slow progress: Understand that sharing can be hard at first and requires patience and practice
Final Thoughts
Teaching young children about generosity isn’t just about handing over toys—it’s about helping them connect with others through kindness. With daily opportunities, praise, and storytelling, you can nurture a heart that feels joy not just in having, but in giving. And when generosity becomes part of their character, children grow into compassionate, connected people who make the world a little brighter.