Demonstrate generosity. Children take most of their cues from their parents. When they consistently see you being generous, they will instinctively want to copy your behaviour. Explain your own more munificent decisions aloud: 'I got two of the same CD's for my birthday. I could take one back to the shop and exchange it for a different one, but I know my friend likes this band, so I think I'll give it to her."

Discuss other people's wants and needs. Your aim should be to make your children aware of a wider, less egocentric world. Begin by demonstrating how they might consider the needs of friends and family members. When she says, 'I want chicken for dinner tonight!' you might respond by saying, 'I know your friend Tim likes chicken too. Why don't we ask him to join us?' That way you're saying, in a gentle way, 'Think about others.'