How do you usually handle big feelings at home or in the classroom? In this video, I break down why kids get angry, what’s happening in their developing brains, and simple coping strategies we can teach them to calm down, communicate, and feel understood. It’s practical, gentle, and packed with tools you can start using today. https://youtu.be/_UAUfBDc6es

Why it matters: Sharing is often the first big step toddlers take in learning how to interact kindly with others. It helps them build friendships, reduces conflicts during play, and lays the foundation for cooperation, empathy, and teamwork as they grow. How to teach it: - Model sharing yourself. Show your toddler what sharing looks like by offering part of your snack, handing them a toy, or saying, “Here, you can have some too.” They learn best by watching you. - Practice turn-taking games. Simple back-and-forth games like rolling a ball or stacking blocks help toddlers experience the give-and-take of play. - Use real-life playtime. Encourage them to hand a toy to a sibling or friend. Even if it’s for just a moment, celebrate their effort. - Offer lots of praise. Reinforce the behavior with encouragement: “That was so kind of you to share your crayon!” Positive attention makes them want to do it again. - Keep expectations realistic. Toddlers are naturally protective of their things. Short, successful moments of sharing are victories worth celebrating. ✨ Bonus tip: Reading simple picture books about sharing can make the lesson fun and relatable.

What it means: Taking turns is the ability to wait patiently and alternate with others during conversations, games, or activities. It shows respect, fairness, and courtesy — all essential for building friendships and positive interactions. Why it’s important: - Helps kids learn patience and self-control. - Teaches fairness and respect for others. - Builds stronger communication and teamwork skills. - Prepares kids for real-life situations like waiting in lines, sharing resources at school, or even collaborating in future jobs. Real-life examples for kids: - Waiting for a turn on the playground swing. - Sharing classroom supplies like scissors or markers. - Taking turns to talk during “show and tell.” - Waiting for a sibling to finish using the TV or computer. Strategies to teach taking turns: 1. Play Games 🎲 – Use board games, card games, or playground games that naturally involve turn-taking. 2. Role-Play Conversations 💬 – Practice passing a ball or toy back and forth, with each person speaking only when they have the object. 3. Model Turn-Taking 👩‍🏫 – Show kids what it looks like by modeling patience and fairness yourself. 4. Use Visual Cues 👀 – A timer, talking stick, or even a simple gesture can help kids understand when it’s their turn. 5. Praise and Reinforce 🌟 – Acknowledge and celebrate when kids wait their turn: “Great job waiting for your turn on the slide!” Books that help teach this skill: - It’s My Turn! by David Bedford - Wait Your Turn, Word Bird! by Jane Belk Moncure