A Heartfelt Guide to Social Skills: Review of Share and Take Turns by Cheri J. Meiners M.Ed.

Introduction: Why This Book Stands Out

In a world where social skills are as crucial as academic ones, Share and Take Turns (Learning to Get Along, Book 1) by Cheri J. Meiners M.Ed. emerges as a gentle yet powerful tool for teaching children the fundamentals of cooperation. This book, the first in the Learning to Get Along series, doesn’t just preach sharing—it models it through relatable scenarios, engaging illustrations, and simple yet profound lessons.

As a parent, educator, or caregiver, you’ve likely witnessed the struggles young children face when navigating fairness and turn-taking. Meiners, with her background in education, crafts a book that feels like a warm conversation rather than a lecture. But does it truly resonate with kids? Does it hold up against other social-emotional learning books? Let’s dive in.

Plot Summary: A Lesson in Fair Play

Share and Take Turns follows a group of diverse children as they navigate everyday situations where sharing is required—whether it’s toys, playground equipment, or attention. The narrative avoids heavy-handed moralizing, instead presenting scenarios where characters experience frustration, negotiation, and ultimately, the joy of cooperation.

One memorable moment involves a child struggling to let go of a favorite toy, only to discover that sharing doesn’t mean losing it forever. Another scene depicts friends taking turns on a swing, reinforcing patience and fairness. The book’s strength lies in its simplicity—it doesn’t overcomplicate the message, making it accessible even to very young readers.

Character Analysis & Development: Real Kids, Real Struggles

Meiners populates her book with children who feel authentic—they’re not perfect role models but relatable figures who sometimes hesitate, get upset, or need reminders. This realism is crucial because it allows young readers to see themselves in the characters.

For example, one child initially refuses to share a ball but gradually learns that playing together is more fun than playing alone. Another character models active listening, showing how acknowledging others’ feelings can resolve conflicts. The absence of “villains” or overly punitive consequences makes the lessons feel organic rather than forced.

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Clear, Engaging, and Repetitive (In a Good Way!)

Meiners’ writing is straightforward yet rhythmic, employing repetition to reinforce key concepts—a technique proven to aid retention in early learners. Phrases like “Sharing means you care” and “Taking turns is fair” stick in the mind without feeling monotonous.

The book’s structure alternates between narrative moments and direct questions to the reader (“How do you feel when someone shares with you?”), encouraging interaction. The illustrations by Meredith Johnson complement the text beautifully, using bright colors and expressive faces to convey emotions clearly.

Thematic Exploration: More Than Just Sharing

While the surface-level lesson is about sharing, deeper themes emerge:

  • Empathy – Understanding how others feel when excluded.
  • Patience – Waiting for a turn without frustration.
  • Community – Recognizing that cooperation makes activities more enjoyable.

Meiners subtly introduces the idea that sharing isn’t just about objects—it’s about time, space, and kindness. This broader perspective elevates the book beyond a simple “be nice” message.

Personal Reading Experience: Did It Work for My Kids?

Reading this with my 4-year-old, I noticed an immediate engagement—the scenarios mirrored her own struggles at playdates. She pointed at the characters and said, “That’s like when Emma didn’t share her crayons!” The book sparked conversations about fairness that lasted beyond the final page.

However, younger toddlers (2-3) may need more repetition and real-life reinforcement to fully grasp the concepts. For older kids (5-7), the simplicity might feel a bit basic, though the core message remains valuable.

Comparison to Other Books in the Genre

Compared to Mine! by Sue Grabham or Llama Llama Time to Share by Anna Dewdney, Share and Take Turns stands out for its instructional clarity. While Dewdney’s book leans on humor and rhyme, Meiners’ approach is more direct, making it a better fit for structured learning environments like classrooms.

It lacks the whimsy of The Berenstain Bears series but makes up for it with practical, actionable advice. If you’re looking for a book that balances storytelling with teachable moments, this is a strong contender.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

✅ Clear, actionable lessons – Kids walk away knowing how to share, not just that they should.
✅ Diverse representation – Illustrations include children of different races and abilities.
✅ Interactive elements – Questions prompt discussions between adults and kids.

Weaknesses:

❌ May feel too simplistic for older kids – Best suited for ages 3-6.
❌ Limited plot depth – More of a teaching tool than a storybook.

Target Audience: Who Should Read This?

  • Parents of toddlers/pre-K kids navigating social dynamics.
  • Teachers looking for a read-aloud book to reinforce classroom rules.
  • Child therapists/counselors seeking relatable materials for social skills groups.

It’s especially useful for kids who struggle with possessiveness or frustration in group settings.

Memorable Quotes & Passages

“When we share, everyone gets a turn. That’s fair!”
“You can ask for a turn, and you can wait for a turn.”

These lines distill the book’s core philosophy into digestible nuggets.

Cultural & Historical Context

Published in 2003, Share and Take Turns arrived during a growing emphasis on social-emotional learning (SEL) in education. Its enduring relevance speaks to the timeless need for teaching empathy and cooperation in an increasingly individualistic world.

Final Verdict: A Must-Have for Early Social Learning

Share and Take Turns isn’t just a book—it’s a toolkit disguised as a story. Meiners’ expertise shines through in its accessibility, practicality, and warmth. While it won’t replace real-life practice, it provides a fantastic starting point for conversations about fairness.

If you’re looking for a book that helps kids navigate the complexities of sharing without feeling lectured, this is a stellar choice.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers:

  • How do you reinforce sharing at home or in the classroom?
  • What other books have you found effective for teaching social skills?
  • Did this book resonate with your child? Why or why not?

Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments! 📚💬

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