Fuzzy Philosophy: Sharing

Dear Cleo,

I have two children, and they are always fighting over toys. How can I teach them the importance of sharing?

Sincerely, 

Frustrated Parent

---

Dear Frustrated Parent,

Oh, sharing! What a lovely concept. When my friend, Mr. Owl, told me about sharing, I thought he said "shearing" and ended up giving a sheep a haircut! But I think I understand now.

Sharing is like when you have a bamboo stick, and your friend has a different bamboo stick. If you both give each other a bite of your bamboo, then you get to taste two different bamboos! But be careful; once I tried this with my friend, the squirrel, and I ended up with a bunch of nuts instead. Not quite the same.

Here’s what you can do with your children:

1. Show by Example: Start by sharing something of yours with them. I once shared my bamboo with my son, Jia, but he thought it was a game and hid it in the trees. So make sure they know it's serious!

2. Create a Sharing Schedule: You can make a timetable. One child gets to play with the toy at one time, and the other gets it at another time. It’s like when I schedule my nap times and snack times – balance is key!

3. Teach the Bamboo Principle: Explain to them that toys, like bamboo, are better when enjoyed together. But if they insist on fighting, remind them that squirrels don’t share their nuts – they bury them! (Although, I’m still figuring out why they do that.)

4. Celebrate Small Wins: Whenever they share, even if it’s just for a second, give them a little reward. I reward myself with a bamboo stick every time I figure out something new, like how to open a jar of honey.

Remember, sharing isn’t about giving up what you love; it’s about finding joy in someone else’s happiness. And if all else fails, you can always try shearing a sheep together – it's a bonding experience!

Fuzzily yours,

Cleo

Are you looking for some advice? Email me your question at beastlybanterblog@gmail.com

Cleo is our lovable, confused advice columnist. In Fuzzy Philosophy with Cleo, which posts every Monday, she provides accidentally poignant advice, often misinterpreting situations in the most endearing ways. Cleo's columns are signed off with 'Fuzzily yours,' and she is also a dedicated mother to her son, Jia.