Keeping a toy when another child wants it is not the mark of a selfish child, but simply a busy one. Protect your child's right to play and teach her to say, "I'm not done yet." Interrupting play --- and instantly rewarding the other child --- does not benefit either child. Waiting for a turn teaches great lessons in delayed gratification. Young children aren't ready to share; they are ready to take turns. Turn-taking empowers kids and helps teach courtesy, awareness and spontaneous generosity.
- Heather Shumaker