The grocery store might as well be a black hole for many parents of toddlers, given the way some of them lose all manners as soon as they get there. Most parents have experienced the embarrassment of our children showing their tails in public places. How do you control your child when you go to the grocery store? Should you try a muzzle and handcuffs? Of course not. Here are some tips to remember when you and your child head out for groceries next time:
First and foremost, you have to get a handle on your child wanting everything from candy to that box of light bulbs on the housewares aisle. This is actually quite easy. Before you leave, explain to your child that they get one thing at the grocery store, but it has to be healthy. Just giving the child options will take care of the wanting in most cases. Also explain that extra wants means getting nothing, and enforce it. You will have to go through a couple of fits the first few times, but after that they get the point.
Another common problem is touching things that they have no business touching. This is very easy to handle as well. Children are easily bored, and need something to play with as they ride in the cart. Let them bring one small toy to the store with them to keep their attention. If you do not like this idea, then let them hold one item that is not easily damaged or opened while you shop. Explain that it is their special item and that they must take very good care of it.
Another fine way to occupy that child in the grocery store is to have them help you. Explain that you need help remembering everything and ask them to remember a couple of things for you. Amazingly, they will remember most of the time, and it seems to occupy their attention as well.
Discipline is another issue. Children are going to be unruly sometimes and it usually will be in line at the store with fifteen people in front and back of you when they decide to do so. It is vital that you stop what you are doing and take your child to the car for an attitude adjustment. It is inconvenient, and even a pain in the tail, but it is necessary if you want a child that behaves themselves in public. Do not ever give in to a child’s fit just to get through the situation. If you do, you can expect a lifetime of problems in the store.
Grocery shopping with your child can actually be a fun and happy experience if you provide discipline when appropriate, and prepare before you leave for the store. Take some of this advice and apply it to your parenting, and you will be amazed at how quickly they will fall into line in the grocery store. Above all, be patient and remember that they are kids.
Image Credited to Wikipedia User Debbie Mc
