Simple, Practical Ways to Teach Sharing to Autistic Children
Teaching an autistic child to share starts with simple, practical steps you can use every day. Sharing is a learned skill, not something kids automatically know how to do. With clear expectations, repetition, and encouragement, many autistic children can learn to share at their own pace.
Simple ways to teach an autistic child to share
Sharing works best when it’s taught slowly and on purpose. Start small and keep things positive.
Start with turn-taking
Turn-taking is easier than sharing at first. Use games where each person has a clear turn, like rolling a ball, building with blocks, or playing a simple board game. Say “my turn” and “your turn” out loud so your child hears the rule every time.
Use visual support
Many autistic children understand better when they can see what’s happening. Use a timer, countdown app, or picture cards to show how long a turn lasts. This helps reduce frustration and makes waiting more predictable.
Practice with low-stress items
Avoid starting with your child’s favorite toy. Pick items that are interesting but not highly emotional. Once sharing improves, you can slowly practice with more preferred items.
Model sharing
Show your child what sharing looks like. Share items with them and with others while explaining what you’re doing. Simple language works best: “I’m sharing with you,” or “Now it’s your turn.”
Praise effort right away
Praise matters. Even short attempts count. Say things like, “Nice sharing,” or “Great waiting.” Immediate, specific praise helps reinforce the behavior.
When sharing is still difficult
Some children need more structured support to learn social skills like sharing. This is very common. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy can help by breaking sharing into small, teachable steps and practicing them consistently.
At Blue Jay ABA, we work closely with families to teach real-life skills that matter at home, school, and in the community. If you’re looking for an autism evaluation, an ABA assessment, or ABA parent training, we can help guide you through the process.
We provide personalized ABA therapy services for families in North Carolina and Colorado, including:
Our goal is to make everyday skills—like sharing—more manageable and less stressful for both children and parents.
Ready to get support? Contact Blue Jay ABA to learn more about our services and how we can support your family.
FAQs
Is it normal for autistic children to struggle with sharing?
Yes. Sharing involves communication, waiting, and flexibility, which can be challenging for autistic children.
What age should an autistic child start learning to share?
You can begin teaching early, but expectations should match your child’s developmental level, not their age.
Can parents teach sharing at home without therapy?
Yes. Many parents make progress at home, but ABA therapy can provide extra structure and support when needed.
Sources:
- https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/about-autism/autism-and-communication
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9788721/
- https://iidc.indiana.edu/irca/articles/making-and-keeping-friends.html
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8115498/
- https://educationonline.ku.edu/community/social-difficulties-in-autism-spectrum-disorder
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