Playground politics

This fall we have spent a lot of time at a park near our house. It has been especially warm so we try to get as many afternoons in as we can, since our days are numbered before it gets really cold. The park we frequent is new and has shade covers over the playground equipment; but Jack's favorite part is the sand volleyball court, which usually turns into a big sandbox for all the kids. On a normal day we bring a blanket, meet some friends and hang out for an hour or two.

I love the park for many reasons: fresh air, conversations with other mommies for me, Jack gets to use up lots of energy, and it gives us something to do until dinner time.

But, the one thing that irks the hell out of me is SHARING! As you can see from the picture, we bring lots of toys (well, mostly trucks and a shovel) to the park so Jack can play with them. Two of his buddies also bring toys and trucks and they usually do a pretty good job of sharing. If Jack isn't in the mood for sharing we talk about "trading" or using nice words to get his toys back. It all works out, for the most part.

My question is this: Do I need to make Jack share his toys with other kids that are at the park? These kids are not people we know and most of the time their mommies are not paying any attention when their kid walks up to Jack and his trucks and tries to swipe one. For some reason I think it's a little much to ask a three year old, who is truck-obsessed mind you, to share his trucks w/ perfect strangers.

The most interesting facet of playgroud politics (for me anyway) is that Jack can get really fiesty w/ kids that are younger or the same age, but if an "older boy" wants to play w/ his trucks, he lets them. Not sure if it's the size of the older boy or the negotiation factor they have. Like for instance:

"Hey, why don't you come over here and play w/ me and bring your trucks."

OR

"I'll give you this cool stick if you let me hold your truck."

It's quite interesting watching Jack try to figure this out. I try to stay out of it for the most part, but it's hard sometimes. I guess one day when Jack grows up I'll look back and realize it's not that big of a deal, it's all a part of growing up.

Until next time...