When Siblings Fight Over Toys at Age 0-2
The Situation
Your toddler grabs things from an older sibling, hits, or screams when they don't get what they want from a brother or sister.
Goal
Keep everyone safe and begin teaching the very basics of sharing and turn-taking
What to Say
'We use gentle hands.' (physically guide their hands) / 'Brother is using that right now. Here's one for you.' Offer a substitute.
What Not to Say
'Share! You have to share!' (toddlers can't yet) / Punishing the toddler for developmentally normal behavior / Blaming the older sibling for not giving in.
3-Step Plan
Supervise closely. Toddlers don't have impulse control yet — they need adult presence, not lectures.
Protect the older child's right to their belongings sometimes. Teaching 'everything must be shared' creates resentment. Create some protected spaces.
Narrate what you want to see: 'You gave your sister a turn. That was so kind.' Positive narration builds the behavior over time.
Follow Up
Set up parallel play — two sets of similar toys so both children can play without conflict. Prevention is the most effective strategy at this age.
Safety Note
Toddlers who bite or hit siblings need immediate, calm intervention — not punishment. Separate, calm, redirect.
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