You probably didn’t plan for how much more complicated even the simplest things would be once you had kids. It’s hard to imagine the possible scenarios that you could find yourself in at the store with a toddler unless you have actually lived through it. Once you do figure out the harsh reality that taking your children anywhere is a huge undertaking, you probably begin looking and asking around for advice on how you can prepare for shopping with little ones in order to make the process easier. Fortunately you are not alone. Moms everywhere feel your pain and know what you are going through. And there really are tips for shopping preparation for shopping with little ones that you can hopefully use to your advantage the next time you venture outside. Here are just a few of the tips for shopping with little ones.
Have the necessary supplies – Just as you would never leave to go shopping without your wallet and keys, you should never leave to go shopping with your kids with out their necessary supplies. Such things as wipes, diapers, snacks, a drink, etc. are just some of the supplies that your kids need to be comfortable and entertained for the length of your shopping trip. So before leaving home make sure to prepare their bags with what will make them feel comfortable.
Avoid temptations – As you prepare to go shopping, know and try to avoid places where your child knows he can find candy, toys, or other treats. At the grocery store, unless you need something on the candy isle, bypass it completely. Do not walk into a toy store unless you expect to buy something. Avoid the temptation of pushing your luck with the patience of your children. Do not try to over schedule your afternoon of errand running. There are definite disadvantages to the mentality of “just get it over with.”
Have a nap and a snack – Make sure that you kids are as happy and as agreeable as possible before taking them shopping. This means that they have recently had a good time of rest and something to fill their stomachs. Few things are more difficult to deal with than a hungry and tired child. When you put your kids first and think of what would make them most comfortable, you can often come up with solutions to common shopping problems that are better than any generic advice that you may hear or read about.
Keep each shopping session as short as possible – Know what you need so you can get in and out as quickly as possible. Have a prepared list and have a good idea of where each of the items is so that you can pick everything up in the most efficient way possible. Avoid talking on the phone, trying to form your list while you are in the isles of the grocery store, etc. Walking quickly is not only a time saver but it is also a great way to get a workout at the same time (I have also found that young children tend to be better entertained when you keep a more brisk pace).
Look into tag-team baby sitting – Some times the best solutions to preparing for shopping with kids is to prepare not to take them shopping at all. If you have friends or neighbors that you trust who live close by, consider coming to an agreement with them that you will watch their kids while they do their shopping and then they agree to watch your kids while you go shopping. Obviously you will have to work out the details as to how long each person agrees to be gone, etc. but this mutually beneficial arrangement is often a fantastic idea. Not only do you have your full attention that you can focus on the task at hand, but your kids enjoy playing with their friends instead of being stuck with mom on another errand. Of course if you have the means you can always hire a sitter for the time that you will be away shopping.
