Teaching kids to share is one of the most important lessons they can learn while growing up. Children are naturally protective of what they think belongs to them, be it their favorite toy, a snack, or even your attention. But learning to share helps them understand kindness and traits they will carry throughout their entire lives.

Sharing teaches kids how to think beyond themselves. It encourages them to notice what others might need or want. When a child learns to share, they also learn how to communicate, take turns, and handle emotions like disappointment. These are all small but powerful steps in their social and emotional growth. Sharing also helps kids learn to work with others, making school, playdates, and family time much smoother and happier.

Another great thing about teaching kids to share is that it helps them feel good about themselves. When children see that their small act, offering a toy or giving a friend a treat, makes someone else smile, they start to understand the joy of giving. It builds confidence and teaches them the value of kindness. Over time, sharing becomes less of a rule and more of a natural habit.

Learning to share also prepares kids for the real world. As they grow older, they will have to share space, responsibilities, resources, and even ideas with classmates, coworkers, and family members. The earlier they learn this skill, the easier those moments will be. Sharing teaches cooperation and mutual respect that make children more understanding and adaptable.

Of course, sharing doesn’t come easily to every child, and that’s okay. It takes time and examples they can understand. One of the best ways to teach children about sharing is through stories that bring the lesson to life in a fun and imaginative way.

That’s why Odetta and the Pizza Tree is such a wonderful book to share with your kids. The story follows a young girl who plants a mysterious seed from her world-traveling grandfather, only to discover a magical tree that grows pizza instead of fruit. What begins as a fun and exciting surprise turns into a sweet lesson about generosity. As Odetta learns to enjoy her pizza tree, she also learns the importance of sharing its delicious gifts with others.

This charming, creative tale is perfect for teaching children why sharing matters and how good it feels. A warm, delightful read that will leave them smiling, Odetta and the Pizza Tree by Willa Brigham is a great book to add to your child’s shelf.