How to Teach Young Children About Sharing and Kindness
Sharing and kindness are fundamental social skills that help young children build friendships, understand empathy, and create a positive environment wherever they go. While sharing isn’t always easy—especially in early childhood—teaching it gently and consistently makes a huge difference over time.
Why Sharing and Kindness Matter
- Fosters friendship and cooperation
- Teaches empathy and compassion
- Strengthens emotional intelligence
- Builds trust and a sense of community
- Promotes emotional resilience and generosity
Option 1: Practice Sharing Through Play and Group Activities
Activity Idea:
Set up activities that naturally involve sharing, like:
- Playing with building blocks
- Drawing together with shared art supplies
- Passing a ball or stuffed animal in a circle
Narrate and celebrate sharing moments:
- “You gave your friend a turn with the toy—how kind!”
What Kids Learn:
- Taking turns and generosity
- Joy from shared experiences
- That sharing strengthens friendships
Tool Suggestion:
Create a “Sharing Stars” chart where acts of sharing and kindness earn recognition.
Option 2: Teach Kindness with Everyday Opportunities
Activity Idea:
Encourage small acts of kindness daily:
- Holding the door for someone
- Giving a compliment
- Helping clean up without being asked
Model kind words and actions:
- “Thank you for helping me.”
- “Let’s make a card for a neighbor.”
What Kids Learn:
- The ripple effect of kindness
- How small actions make a big difference
- Pride in caring for others
Book Suggestion:
Kindness is My Superpower by Alicia Ortego — a simple, colorful story about the magic of kindness.
Other Ways to Support Sharing and Kindness
- Use role-play: Practice scenarios where sharing and kindness are needed
- Praise immediately: “I noticed you shared your crayons so nicely!”
- Create a kindness jar: Add a marble or sticker each time a kind act is noticed
- Talk about feelings: “How do you feel when someone shares with you?”
- Celebrate group successes: Focus on “we” instead of just “me”
Final Thoughts
Sharing and kindness aren’t automatic—they’re learned through love, guidance, and daily opportunities to care. With gentle encouragement, praise, and lots of modeling, children can grow into thoughtful, generous individuals who make their little corners of the world brighter every day.