Your child won't share toys: selfishness or just their age?
⚡ Short answer: Not sharing at 18-24 months isn't selfishness — it's the healthy peak of 'mine' feelings; don't force it, offer swaps instead — real sharing comes at 3-4 years.
Anonymous
19 aylık bebek annesi · Development
At the park, they won't give anyone their toys and want everyone else's. When do children learn to share, should I make them?
Maiyko AI ADVISOR
The real reply from the in-app AI advisor
Don't worry — this age (18-24 months) doesn't understand sharing as a concept. They're at the peak of 'mine' feelings — ownership and possession, which is healthy development, not selfishness.
Forcing won't help; it usually makes them cling tighter. Instead:
- Bring a backup toy and offer a swap: 'Alex is playing with that now, you can have this one.'
- Model sharing yourself at home ('I used the spoon, now you use the spoon').
Real sharing comes around 3-4 years when friendship becomes a real concept. For now, these conflicts are temporary; don't take them personally.
⚕️ Health note: This answer is for general information only; it is not medical advice. Every baby is different — for decisions about your baby's health, consult your pediatrician.
This answer is general — yours can be personal 🐦
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