Parenting Perspective 

Make it Natural and Enjoyable 

Teaching children to share without feeling forced is an important skill that promotes kindness, empathy, and cooperation. It is essential to approach this with patience, as children may struggle with the concept of sharing, especially when they are young or feel possessive about their belongings. The key is to encourage sharing in a way that feels natural and enjoyable, rather than making it feel like an obligation. 

Model Sharing and Offer Choices 

Start by modelling the act of sharing yourself. Children learn by observing the behaviour of adults, so it is essential to show them how sharing can be a positive experience. For example, you can share your own things with them, such as your time, food, or resources. If they see you willingly sharing, they will be more likely to do the same. 

Instead of forcing your child to share, it helps to offer them choices. For example, you might say, ‘Would you like to play with the toy for five more minutes, and then we can take turns?’ Giving them the opportunity to make decisions about sharing allows them to feel in control, which can make the process feel less forced. Praise them when they share, even in small ways. 

Teach the Value of Empathy 

It is also important to teach your child the value of empathy. When your child is reluctant to share, you can remind them of how their sibling or friend might feel. For example, you can say, ‘Your sister is waiting for a turn to play with the toy. How would you feel if you were waiting for your turn?’ Helping your child to understand the feelings of others makes the act of sharing feel more natural and less like an imposition. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, generosity and sharing are highly valued virtues. Allah Almighty reminds us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hashar (59), Verse 9: 

‘And as for those people who settled their homes (in Madinah Al Munawwarah) and (adopted) the faith before them; they love those people who emigrated to them; and did not harbour (any resentments) in their conscience, desiring what was given (to others); and giving preference over themselves, even though they were impecunious themselves….’ 

This verse highlights the importance of sharing, even when one is in need themselves. Teaching your children to share reflects this fundamental Islamic value of generosity and selflessness. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of sharing and kindness. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 13, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

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

This Hadith teaches that sharing and caring for others is not just an act of kindness, but a reflection of true faith. By teaching your children to share willingly, you are helping them to embody these virtues and to align their behaviour with the teachings of Islam.