Easy Shopping with Preschoolers in Tow

Whether you are going for groceries or shopping for other necessities, you want to get the job done without stress. Preschoolers are at that age where they get bored and just don't want to be sitting in a cart perusing the aisles with you. They also want everything they see and will cause an "outburst of commotion" if they don't get it. I admit that there were many times where I gave in with a toy or "want" just to keep the stress level down and get my shopping done quickly. I just didn't want the drama. But was this the right decision? I think teaching good behavior now is best for a better tomorrow. Being down this road before, here are some easy shopping suggestions to keep the experience calmer and more enjoyable for both you and your child.

The time you shop is really important. Make sure to plan your excursion when your child is neither hungry nor overtired. It may be helpful to pack along a simple snack - something to munch on to pass the time. Also, shopping will be a better experience if you are not rushed; your patience will be longer.

State the rules before you leave home. Talk with your child prior to your outing about what you expect on the shopping trip. Clearly state what he or she may have or not have. Explain that if this trip goes uneventfully, you will have extra time to participate in a game, trip to the park or even a special treat.

Try making shopping a game. Children love to scavenger hunt and play guessing games. Perhaps asking your child to tell you when he spots a green box or red bottle will make the task more interesting. You may want to take along a product picture (cut from a magazine or newspaper ad) and let your child search for the item that matches the picture. Make sure this game is done from the cart '" we don't want children running up and down the aisles. These activities make shopping a learning experience.

Avoid shopping when the store is busy. Maneuvering through busy aisles and enduring long waits at the checkout counter can be trying for adults, much less the children. Weekends and after work can be quite challenging because of crowds. Going shopping during a slow time promises to be less stressful. And if the store has kiddie carts for the children to push, this may be a good time to let your child enjoy this fun experience. She'll feel so grown-up helping mom or dad, which hopefully will make her more willing to cooperate.

So, what if my child throws a tantrum? What's new in the world of parenting? Don't worry too much about creating a scene '" this isn't the first time shoppers have heard a screaming child. It is embarrassing, but stick to your rules and limits. This will only show your child that rules are meant for keeping '" no exceptions. As a parent you are teaching good behavior and guidance for years down the road.

Easy shopping with preschoolers doesn't have to be hard, just well planned. Make sure to keep your "little bag of tricks" (snack, small toy, pictures for hunting, etc.) close by and your shopping days should be fun, educational and stress-free.

Source: personal experience

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