abc all about me

We're doing a new technique for teaching sharing skills. Here's the scenario: there is a toy both boys (or more, if the neighbors are involved) want, and only one boy has possession of it. The typical reaction of the boy-in-want is to try to pry the toy from his brothers' hands.

A discussion about the ownership rights will ensue. There may be demanding, raised voices, strong rhetoric, and other impolite behavior. The whole exchange often results in conflict. Sometimes they can solve the situation diplomatically, but other times they are tempted to use force. It's a little like politics. :)

Mama does not like conflict, and yet, I am frequently arbitrating. Blessed are the peacemakers, right?

Taking turns would, in theory, solve the problem. Except frequently it is excruciating to wait one's turn. You know this - when's the last time you had to wait a turn? How did you like it? How was it to see somebody else have what you wanted?

So, here's our solution: the boy who wants the toy must first sing the ABC's. At the end of the song, turns change, and he can play with the toy until another round of ABC's is complete. Each turn lasts as long as the ABC song. Frequently, this is long enough for them to lose interest or find something else to play with. At the minimum, it has helped reinforce the alphabet for both boys.

Obi-2 still has a few alphabetical mix ups. Follow me, here, as we sing along:

"... Q R S, T R V, double-R X, Y and Z..."

Typical to a 2-year-old. It's all about me, there's no room for U. :)