Whether your child is starting day care or kindergarten, learning social skills that promote friendship and mutual respect are essential. Not every child is inherently good at sharing. Instead, it must be consistently taught and affirmed. At Country Day Care and Magnolia Ridge Child Care Center , we take pride in helping your child learn these important social skills. Even if your child struggles to share, there are strategies worth trying that will encourage them to be more willing to share. Below are four suggestions for teaching your child to share more effectively. Start Practicing at an Early Age You can start teaching your child proper sharing manners around the age of two. Finding an item that your child enjoys and beginning to pass it back and forth while expressing your interest in the item is a great way to start. This will help demonstrate to them the importance of things that are outside their particular interests. Demonstrate the Right Behavior Because children imitate their parents, it is critical to model the sharing behavior you promote in others. It is more likely that your child will learn to respect this behavior if you make a habit of doing it in your daily life. Don't Force them to Share Their Most Cherished Possession(s) If your child is especially attached to a stuffed animal or blanket, you should not force them to share it. This can cause more stress than it's worth. Instead, choose a less meaningful item to use as a practice ground for sharing. Positive Reinforcement To instill the joy of sharing in your child, you will need to convey to him or her the value of giving to others. Anytime your child demonstrates improved sharing abilities, make a big deal about how great of a job they are doing. Day Care in Richmond and Glen Allen If you’re interested in enrolling your child in a day care or after-school care that emphasizes learning important social skills, contact the experts at Country Day Care and Magnolia Ridge Child Care Center for trusted day care in Richmond and Glen Allen, VA. To enroll your child at our Richmond day care center call Country Day Care at  804-282-8502  or for Glen Allen child care call  804-515-1933  to talk with our team at Magnolia Ridge. Contact us today with any questions!