That’s Mine!
Here's What To Do
1
It's important for me to know that some things are "mine." If there are other children at home, help me protect my things from them.
2
It's hard for me to understand why I should share. If I do happen to share, praise my efforts and show me how happy I made the other person. See if you can return the item to me quickly so I know I get things back too.
3
Help me say "mine" if another child grabs my things. It helps me understand that I am an individual and what belongs to me.
4
I may try taking things that aren't mine from other people. Return the item to its owner and distract me with another object I am allowed to have.
Put PEER Into Action
P
Pause:
- Take a deep breath before navigating any conflicts over "mine!" It will be easier to help me if you're calm yourself.
E
Engage:
- "Amari, you don't have to share your special piggy stuffie with your brother. That's yours. Let's find something else for your brother to play with."
- "Say, 'mine,' Kai. Let her know that's your truck."
E
Encourage:
- Encourage more sharing by complimenting me: "What a great job sharing those blocks! Look, she's so happy to be able to play with the blocks."
- If I take something from someone else, say, "I know you really want that doll. Unfortunately, it's not yours, so you need to give it back. You can play with this doll instead."
R
Reflect:
- Have I begun to say "mine" more frequently?
As your child grows...
They will develop a sense of ownership and have a better sense of boundaries relating to their belongings