Parenting Perspective 

Model Sharing in Daily Life 

Teaching an only child to share is entirely possible, even without frequent playdates, by creating opportunities within daily family life. Children learn most powerfully through observation, so the first step is to model generosity yourself. By offering to share your own food or asking for a turn with a book, and then expressing appreciation when your child reciprocates, you demonstrate that sharing is a natural and warm way to connect. 

Create Everyday Sharing Moments 

Parents can create small routines that make turn-taking a normal part of the day. For example, when reading a book, take turns turning the pages. When cooking, take turns stirring. Gently asking, ‘May I have a turn with your toy for a moment?’ and then happily handing it back after a short time, helps to normalise the act of sharing. This teaches the child that sharing an item does not mean losing it forever. 

Encourage Without Labelling 

If your child is reluctant to share, it is important to avoid labels like ‘selfish.’ Instead, offer warm praise for even the smallest acts of generosity, such as, ‘Thank you for letting me have a turn, that was very kind.’ The goal is not to force the behaviour, but to create positive experiences where sharing feels rewarding. This way, generosity becomes a part of their character. 

Spiritual Insight 

Giving Preference to Others 

Islam nurtures the spirit of generosity as a mark of a truly noble character. The Quran praises those who give to others even when they themselves are in need, reminding us that this quality is a sign of success in the sight of Allah. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hashar (59), Verse 9: 

‘…And giving preference over themselves, even though they were impecunious themselves…’ 

The Hand That Gives is Better 

The prophetic tradition teaches that the act of giving elevates a person’s dignity and brings immense blessings. Teaching a child to share is teaching them to have the “upper hand” the one that gives rather than takes. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, 1427, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The hand that gives is better than the hand that takes.’ 

Sharing as an Act of Worship 

By explaining that every act of sharing is pleasing to Allah, parents can transform a simple social skill into a meaningful act of worship. This helps an only child to develop a generous heart, learning from a young age that considering the needs of others is a beautiful part of our deen.