When you visit the grocery store with your child, do you often brace yourself for a toddler meltdown? These grocery shopping tips should make your next trip to the store easier and more productive.
1. Timing is everything.
If you’re child’s sleepy or hungry, perhaps a trip to the grocery store isn’t the best idea. Go when your child is well-rested and fed. You also don’t want to go to the store during peak hours when it’s going to be crowded. Try to go shopping in the morning or in the early afternoon, when stores aren’t as packed.
You also want to make sure that you have plenty of time. If you’re doing a large grocery trip, give yourself a lot of leeway.
Photo: Pixabay
2. Set ground rules.
Tell your children how they’re expected to behave, explaining what to do and what not to do. For example, tell them that they shouldn’t yell or wander off, and that if they do that, they’ll face consequences. If they follow your rules, make sure to encourage them and thank them for their good behavior.
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3. Get them involved.
You can ask your child to make a short shopping list at home. This can be the perfect opportunity for her to practice spelling and reading. If she’s younger, she can draw pictures instead. They can also push a kid’s shopping cart (if available), help you look for items on your list, or reach for things on lower shelves.
4. Be prepared.
We’re talking diapers, wipes, a change of clothes, books, toys, snacks—the works. Though your kids could have been well-behaved on your previous trip, anything can happen.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
5. Don’t give in to your child’s tantrums.
When your child acts up, don’t leave the supermarket. You can go outside and talk to him calmly before going back in to try again. Leaving the store shows your child that they hold the power, so it’s important that you follow through on your grocery trip.
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