Toddlers aren't well known for their ability to share. Learning to share is a gradual process that takes place during the first few years of your toddler's life. Sharing is often difficult for toddlers because they are just beginning to comprehend the meaning of ownership, and therefore, anything and everything ends up being labeled "mine!". Many toddlers are also fearful that if they share a favorite toy with a playmate, they won't get it back.

Here are some simple suggestions that you can try to help encourage your toddler to share, whether he's at home, daycare, or in a playgroup.

• Share with your Toddler - One of the best ways to teach your toddler about sharing is by acting as a positive role model. Let him see how rewarding it can be to share your possessions with someone else. Make a point to share things with him frequently, whether it's giving him a bite of your snack or letting him wear your watch. As he grows accustomed to you sharing your possessions with him, slowly start asking him to share with you. Ask him if you can borrow his teddy bear for a short period of time, or ask him for a bite of his snack, for example.

• Don't force your toddler to share - Forcing your toddler to share his possessions may make him feel as if his needs are less important than those of others. It can also damage his sense of security, because he may feel that his prized possessions are up for grabs. This can leave him feeling insecure and unsettled. Additionally, a toddler who is forced to share learns nothing about generosity, because they are simply doing what they are told.

• Compliment your toddlers acts of sharing - Be sure to praise your toddler whenever he shares with someone else. Try to help your toddler see that sharing can be a rewarding experience. As he begins to share more frequently he will begin to understand that sharing his toys with a friend creates a more enjoyable play experience and that squabbling over toys wastes precious playtime.

• Introduce the concept of lending and borrowing - Explain to your toddler that when he shares a toy or other item with someone, he is simply lending it to that person for a short period of time. Reassure your toddler that the toy will be returned to him when the other person is finished borrowing it. As he sees his possessions being safely returned to him, he will become more comfortable with the concept of lending them out.

• Help your toddler resolve sharing conflicts - If a battle breaks out between your toddler and another child over a toy or other item, you should calmly intervene. Talk to both of them about the situation and help them come up with a mutually agreeable solution. Suggest that they take turns playing with the toy, or if possible, play together with the toy. Doing this will help your toddler learn about cooperation, negotiation, and compromise.

Sharing can be a difficult skill for your toddler to learn. If you serve as a positive role model, and are patient with him during this important developmental stage of his life, you will help him become a more generous and well-adjusted person. What could be more rewarding than that?