Forced sharing is out. Scaffolded turn taking is in.
Eeeep - we’ve all said it - "sharing is caring". Two children are locked in battle over a toy, voices rising and out comes the phrase we hope will fix it fast. But what if “sharing is caring” is doing more harm than good?
In this episode, I unpack the very real consequences of forced sharing, why it doesn’t teach what we think it does, and what to do instead. Spoiler: it’s not about children giving up the goods, nor is it about permissiveness. It’s about building trust, patience, and genuine empathy.
🦕 Why “sharing is caring” might actually teach self-sacrifice, not kindness.
🦕 The subtle but powerful difference between sharing and turn-taking.
🦕 The mixed messages we send when we say “You’ve had it long enough” or “Who had it first?”
🦕 How scaffolded turn-taking supports regulation and social growth.
🦕 Practical scripts for tricky moments - that honour both children’s needs.
This episode is for anyone who’s felt caught in the tug-of-war and just wants to handle it better next time - with calm, clarity, and a whole lot more trust in children’s capacity to grow.
Helpful Links
Download my freebie Is Sharing Really Caring?
Connect with me on Instagram @littlebloom.consultancy
Visit my website www.littlebloomconsultancy.com.au