Possible scenario:
Grant takes baby brother Hudson’s toy; Grant gets punished for not sharing when Hudson protests. Hudson takes Grant’s toy; Grant gets punished for not sharing when he refuses Hudson the toy. This could cause Grant confusion and resentment of baby brother.
Thankfully these brothers have wise parents and the scenario actually goes like this:
When Hudson comes near the toys Grant has been playing with, Grant hears from a parent, “Hudson, Grant is playing with these toys. You can’t just take something that someone else is using. Let’s ask Grant nicely if he will share one of his toys.” Then Grant chooses one toy he can let Hudson play with. If Grant is not willing to share at least one toy, then he gets time out. If he shares, he gets a star on a chart leading up to a treat when the chart is filled. If Hudson continues to try to take the toys that Grant has set up to play with, Grant hears from a parent, “Hudson, Grant has already shared a toy with you; you might need a time out for a few minutes” and the parent tries to divert Hudson with something else. Hudson gets time out if he still refuses to leave Grant’s toys.
When Grant takes a toy from Hudson, Grant is reminded that he can’t just take something that someone else is using and he must ask Hudson nicely if he will share a toy. The parent helps Hudson find a different toy to share with Grant. If Grant refuses the alternate toy from Hudson and makes a fuss, then he gets time out.
Grant as the older brother is encouraged to help teach sharing to Hudson. Grant is given a cup of cheerios and Hudson is given a cup of cheerios. Parent suggests that Grant give Hudson a cheerio and Hudson is guided to give Grant one, saying the Bible verse, ‘Be ready to share’ each time they share.
It takes zeal and perseverance to train children in the way they should go. Don’t grow weary in well doing; you will see the fruit of your labor (Galatians 6:9)
For a one week lesson plan on sharing see http://www.trainupthechild.org/2011/01/12/sharing/
