Surviving the Stores with Kids

I'll be honest, the thought of shopping with my kids use to send me into minor anxiety attacks. It is SO hard to focus on the safety and happiness of your kids while trying to decide which cereal is going to be the best deal this week. Here is what I have come up with to make shopping with kids a little more bearable and dare I say enjoyable.

1. Entertainment- Allow your child to bring one small toy to keep them busy.~ For younger children this should be a item that can be attached to the cart, so you don't have to keep picking it up.~A special set of toys that get rotated for shopping trips will make the toys more fun. ~They are less likely to ask you to buy something if they already have something.
2. Comfort- Your child will be able to tolerate you shopping trip longer if they are more comfortable.~If you only need a few things maybe the stroller would be more comfortable than the cart.~ Cart covers that be purchased at at retailers like Target and Walmart can make carts more comfortable, protect from germs and usually have toys attached.
~A blanket can also be used in a cart to add padding and comfort.

3. Snacks!
~I have a formula holder with separate compartments that I bought from BabiesRUs that I keep a variety of different snacks for the kids. (Goldfish crackers, raisins, puffs, cheerios, etc) Distracts their focus momentarily. Which is also nice at the check out counter. ;) "Here I already have a snack for you."

4. Picture Grocery List- Did you know that a lot of store websites allow you to print items from their ad that include a picture? Just click on the items you want and print your list. ~Your kids will have fun hunting for the items on their list

5. Shopping Passport- Make a little book that looks similar to a passpart.
~For each place you go (Walmart, Kroger, Post Office, Bank, etc) Write where you went on each page with the date.~Ask an associate to make a special mark in the book for your child on the page (cashier or door greeter, someone you interact with). Many associates may think this is strange, but others will have a great time with it with stickers or little drawings. ~This will give your child a small reward for making it through the trip that costs nothing.

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