As all mothers know, the grocery store can be a real challenge to your child's behavior! The grocery store is a true test of how much a parent can handle. There are way too many temptations in grocery stores to expect kids (especially toddlers) to behave perfectly at all times. One minute the kids are fine, the next moment they are screaming for a candy bar. Here are some tips to keeping your toddler happy in the grocery store.
1. Come Prepared
The trick to keeping toddlers under control is to expect the unexpected! Have a plan for controlling a meltdown, perhaps a favorite toy, a pacifier, or a snack (keep reading)...
2. Bring a Snack
Rather than tempting your toddler with all the food at the store, bring along a snack for them to munch on and thus, divert their attention from store goods... like candy and other tempting treats.
3. Give Them a Job
Let your toddler feel like they are an integral part of the shopping effort. For example, allow your toddler to throw items into the cart, or ask them to reach something (small and light) off of a shelf.
4. Get Them Involved and Talking
Ask them questions, like "Who at our house will eat this?" Make a game of grocery shopping to keep them engaged rather than to leave them to their own devices. It can be fun for you, too!
5. Colors
A grocery store presents a great teaching opportunity. Allow your child to hold various items and ask them the color or the letter it begins with. With a little practice this little game could be a very effective learning tool.
6. Reward Great Behavior
If your toddler is well behaved during grocery shopping, reward them. If they behave poorly, they should get no reward. They will soon learn that rewards happen when they are well behaved not when they misbehave.
7. Coloring
Bring a coloring book and crayons on your shopping adventure. Put the coloring book on a clipboard so that your toddler will be able to color while seated in the cart. You could even ask them to draw some of the foods you are passing.
8. Bribery
There are those who decry bribing your children; obviously they have no children and have no idea how well bribery can work! If bribery is what it takes to get your child to behave in public, then bribe your toddler. Children can easily be taught to behave but it is easiest to accomplish when they see some reason (the bribe) to behave.
9. Play Dough
Play dough can be a real life saver when your active toddler is bored in the grocery store. Carry a small lump of play dough for them to play with while you are shopping.
10. Stay Calm
Plan your shopping trip so that your child is refreshed and you are not in a hurry. Stay calm throughout the trip and don’t let your child’s behavior stress you. Do your best to present a well-behaved child to the public.
Not every trip will be perfect but remember they are only toddlers for a little while. What have you done to amuse your toddler at the supermarket? How do you keep your little one happy at the grocery store?
Top Photo Credit: *superhoop*
Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I keep my toddler entertained while grocery shopping?
- Bring small toys or snacks to keep them engaged and distracted.
- What are some healthy snacks to bring for a toddler in the store?
- Easy options include fruit slices, crackers, or cheese sticks that are mess-free.
- Is it better to shop with a toddler in the morning or afternoon?
- Shopping in the morning often works best as toddlers are usually well-rested and less fussy.
- How can I involve my toddler in grocery shopping?
- Give them simple tasks like holding a list or picking out fruits to make them feel involved.
- What should I do if my toddler throws a tantrum in the store?
- Stay calm, acknowledge their feelings, and try to redirect their attention to something positive.
- Are there any safety tips for keeping a toddler safe in the grocery store?
- Always keep your toddler close, preferably in a cart or holding your hand, to avoid wandering.
- Should I bring a stroller or use the shopping cart seat for my toddler?
- A shopping cart seat is often safer and allows better supervision during shopping.
- How long is a toddler able to comfortably stay in a grocery store?
- Most toddlers can handle about 20-30 minutes before needing a break or snack.
- Can music or singing help keep a toddler happy in the store?
- Yes, singing songs or playing soft music can distract and soothe a restless toddler.
- How do I prepare my toddler before going to the grocery store?
- Make sure they’re well-rested and fed to reduce crankiness during shopping.