B.F.
Well we've all been in this type situation. I used to be with my son when he had this type thing happen and I'd say "yes we can play with that toy" in a nice voice helping him assert himself, I'd guide him. I figure he was only 3 or 4 and needed my years of experience, sometimes it's best to show then to explain and when you have someone with you and you do it with them it becomes easier. Just a thought and my own experience. I do work at a prek and I help kids that's a quite becomes assertive as well with this practice it's helps on not be alone when doing it at that age, it's worked for some of the kids...some I've notice don't become assertive until they are older 5-6 etc.