Parenting Perspective 

Understand the Toddler Mindset 

Toddlers are only just beginning to learn self-control and often find the concept of waiting very difficult. For them, ‘taking turns’ can feel like losing something they want. Parents can reduce conflict by approaching this developmental stage with empathy instead of strictness. Using short, simple phrases like ‘my turn, then your turn’ during play helps a toddler to grasp the rhythm of sharing without feeling overwhelmed. 

Teach Through Play and Gentle Structure 

The skill of turn-taking is best taught in playful, low-pressure situations. Simple activities like rolling a ball back and forth or taking turns to stack blocks create natural opportunities for practice. If the toddler still resists, using a sand timer or a short, familiar song can make the waiting period feel more predictable and less frustrating. The key is to keep the experience light and consistent. 

Model and Praise Their Effort 

Children learn a great deal from observation. Parents should try to model patience in their own lives, such as by waiting calmly in a queue or sharing food. When a toddler manages even a small step, like waiting for a few seconds, a parent should offer warm and specific praise: ‘That was so kind, you waited for your turn!’ This positive reinforcement teaches them that sharing is a rewarding act. 

Spiritual Insight 

Cooperation in Goodness 

Islam encourages believers to cooperate in all things that are good and righteous. The simple act of taking turns is one of the first ways a child learns this principle, laying a foundation for fairness and collaboration later in life. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Maaidah (5), Verse 2: 

‘…And participate with each other to promote righteousness and piety, and do not collaborate in the committal of any sin or moral transgression…’ 

Loving for Others What You Love for Yourself 

The highest form of good character is to want for others what you want for yourself. Taking turns is a practical, early lesson in this noble principle, teaching a child to value another person’s happiness alongside their own. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 45, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.’ 

An Early Lesson in Faith 

By approaching turn-taking with empathy, playful practice, and consistent modelling, parents can avoid it becoming a constant battle. Instead, a child learns that sharing and waiting are foundational acts of love that build strong relationships and nurture their iman from a very early age.