How to Survive a Shopping Trip with Children in Tow
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Last week I decided that we needed to get out of the house — all of us. Normally I go shopping by myself. But, it had been off and on raining, and I, personally, was suffering from cabin fever.
Plus, I had quizzed everyone on the way to church one Sunday about all the clothes they were missing. It had been one of those mornings when everything appeared stained and worn. Needless to say, I had a list that needed to be shopped.
Rather than go on the weekend when everyone else was off shopping, we went early on Friday when the crowds were non-existent. We were back home in time for lunch and to finish schoolwork.
We caused more than a few raised eyebrows in Old Navy as me and my six little ducklings trooped through the store.
Yes, yes, we did.
But, honestly, it really wasn’t that hard. It helps to have older kids, but even if you don’t, here are some things that I do to survive shopping trips with children in tow.
1. Have a list.
And keep it handy! You will have enough to do to keep a smile on your face, don’t try to remember what you need. Write it down.
2. Pack snacks, water, books, and small toys.
This will definitely buy you some time when littles start to get fussy. And a mocha for you wouldn’t hurt, either.
3. Give a kid the timer.
I love the timer on shopping trips. I usually use it when we’re in the Lego aisle, since I want to know that the end is in sight.
Last week I gave it to my oldest and let him set the timer on me. I know, I’m the one in charge.
But at the same time, I don’t want to exasperate my children. Our trip through Old Navy was only ten minutes. I let him time me and the kids knew there was an end. Our venture through Target, however, was 1 1/2 hours.
4. Give them the camera.
Truly, I did. The camera was in my bag, and I figured that was a great opportunity for them to entertain themselves. I am not sure I would have used this trick if the store were crowded, but on a slow day, it worked like a charm.
5. Take lots of deep breaths.
There are moments when your patience is tried. Practice those relaxation techniques you learned in childbirth class. You never knew they were to be used for a lifetime, did you?
6. Give each child a job.
Kids do best with positive occupation. Since I had my list and we were choosing mostly clothing, it made it easy to assign small tasks and choices to each child.
Go find the ___________.
Help me choose the ____________.
7. Be on the alert for benches, particularly near the checkout.
Older children can be sent to the bench with a younger child. This gives their feet a rest and their eyes a new perspective. We do this often to stave off the impatience that is catching while standing in line.
Keep your eye on them, but know that for the moment, it’s quiet where you are, and you can focus on the prices being rung up, the change the checker gives you, redeeming coupons, etc.
8. Smile often.
One day you’ll be one of those little, old ladies smiling at the young mom tearing her hair out. Childhood passes and you will miss it — even those crazy, crazy shopping daze.
This is what works for me. What works for YOU?
These are great tips–never thought about giving them a camera! How creative 🙂 Although I give my son my cell phone to play with while I cut his hair! haha…it’s for his own safety!
Great ideas! When we’re at the grocery store (when blueberries are in season) I pick up a package of blueberries and let them eat as we go through the store. I am totally loving the camera idea!
@Candi, goldfishy crackers work wonders, though they aren’t as healthy as blueberries. Great idea!
The camera. Pure genius.
And don’t worry about “being in charge”–I think it’s great you’re respectful of their limits.
@Betsy, thanks for your encouragement.
Great tips!! I’ve had to take mine with me to the grocery store, but I have been hesitant to venture out anywhere more creative. I like the timer and camera ideas!
I recently made a “treasure box” filled with little toys like party favors, McDonald’s toys, stickers, crayons, etc. You could also use little bags or backpacks. It gives them something to keep track of and to keep them busy in lines, strollers, or waiting on benches.
@Suzanne, this is brilliant. I need that for every room of the house! lol
Oh, I had never thought of the camera! I always keep it in my bag, so I’ll be trying that next time the kids get restless in the store.
I also find that it helps if I give specific instructions to each child who is old enough as to what you expect of them while in the store (ex. who will be in the cart and who will walk, etc.)
@Laura, great point. I neglected the obvious: tell them what good behavior looks like. Thanks for bringing it up.
I love shopping with my kids, and do most of what you described. Great tips!
I love the idea of a timer and a camera! I also love the pics your kids took 🙂
Before going into the store I always have a talk with the kids about the expectations of what is to happen in the store and we review our list so we can find the items together. I also practice those deep breaths!
@Sara @ Supersavingsense, they took both the pictures that inspired this post. Not bad, eh? The trick with the camera was to make sure the photog had the strap around his wrist at all times. 😉
the timer and the camera sold me! I’m SO going to try this soon. I only have 3 ducklings but they are quite the rascally variety and I can use all the ideas to help with shopping I can get.
These are good tips! I wrote a post awhile ago with my ideas on the topic. It’s here: http://momsinneedofmercy.blogspot.com/2010/02/young-boys-in-store-battleground.html
@Cheryl @ Moms In Need of Mercy, great suggestions. Knowing their limits is key!