At what age do children typically begin to grasp the concept of sharing?

Children typically begin to understand and practice the concept of sharing around the ages of 3 to 4 years old. At this developmental stage, they are transitioning from parallel play—where children play alongside each other but do not interact significantly—to cooperative play, which fosters social interaction and the development of relationships. This is when they start to recognize that others have feelings and needs, which is crucial for the ability to share.

During this age, children often engage in activities that require taking turns and sharing resources, such as toys or games. They begin to grasp that sharing can lead to positive social interactions and friendships, learning that cooperation can enhance their play experiences. This understanding is part of their emotional and social development, allowing them to build empathy and navigate social situations more effectively.

As children grow older, especially around 5 to 6 years, sharing becomes more refined, as they learn to negotiate and understand more complex social dynamics. This foundation laid in the earlier years is key to how they will approach sharing in later childhood.