Shopping with Older Children: Avoid the Whining and Pleading for New Toys

Older children are usually bombarded with advertising for new toys. When they go shopping with their parents, they are faced with the toys they want. A shopping trip with children can quickly turn into a whining and pleading session for these new toys.

Here are some tips to tame the greediness that pops up when shopping with older children.

Shopping with Children Tip: Set Ground Rules Before Entering the Store

Before you and your child set foot in a store where toys are sold, set some basic rules. If you are not planning on buying a toy that day, be upfront with your child. Tell him specifically that a new toy is not part of the plans for the day.

Likewise, if you do plan on buying a toy for your child, tell him that he may pick out one toy. Also tell him the amount that you are willing to spend on a new toy so that he may consider his options as you shop.

Shopping with Children Tip: Create a Wish List

If your child has many wants when shopping, have him create a wish list. Children that are old enough to write can make a list of all the toys they see that they like. The wish list can be used as ideas for birthday and holiday gifts.

Children that are not old enough to write may enjoy drawing a picture of the toys that they want. At the very least, a paper and pencil could serve as a distraction and prevent some of the pleading and whining that often accompanies shopping with children.

Shopping with Children Tip: Give Your Child an Allowance

Once a child is old enough to understand how money works, consider giving him an allowance. A few dollars a week that he can spend on whatever he wants will help him learn how to budget for toys and will help him to feel like he has some control of the decision making process. An allowance will also encourage saving for more expensive toys.

Shopping with Children Tip: Give Your Child a Shopping Job

If your child is reading, make him responsible for finding some of the things on your list. A child that is busy and engaged in an activity is less likely to whine and plead for new toys.

Shopping with Children Tip: Be Consistent

Have a consistent toy-buying policy when shopping with your children. If you sometimes give in to pleading for new toys, then expect that there will be more intense pleading and whining and possibly a tantrum when you don't. If you are consistent with your child about not buying new toys each time you go shopping, then you can make shopping with your child fun again.

For more parenting tips read Raise Your Child to be an Avid Reader.