Have you ever been annoyed by mothers who choose to take their kids for a day of shopping at the mall or supermarket? Kids who wouldn’t stay in the shopping carts or maybe prefer to stand in the seat? And are you one of those moms now, with a toddler that has trouble finding things to do while you’re picking out cereal?
When you don’t have a child, your world is very different. You think it’s easy to contain yourself, and keep tidy, and other people’s kids shouldn’t do this or that and you think you’d never make a single mistake or have to face problems other people are facing (like having to go shopping and take their child with them). The truth of the matter is, your life goes on even after you give birth. You still have needs, and you still need to go shopping once in a while, and it’s not always possible to leave your kid behind with a nanny or a family member.
Toddlers love to explore, and supermarkets or shops with all the merchandise look very inviting. Instead of getting upset or frustrated with your kid trying to wander off or touch things, it’s a great idea to let your toddler be involved in the shopping process. It might sound weird, because they’re so very little, and it’s hard to imagine they could handle the responsibility, but hey, toddlers will surprise you.
You don’t need to delegate the actual shopping to your boy or girl – just let them feel that they matter and make it an interaction process. It’s nice to boost their self-esteem! I know a lady who takes her daughter shopping and explains what every item she takes is for: “This is shower gel – it’s used to wash ourselves”. This way not only does she make it a 2-way street, but she also teaches her child new things. Toddlers can also learn to take things off the shelf for you (just make sure you watch them do it).
Some parents will insist that it’s crucial to let the toddler bring their favorite toys into the store. Others will say that not allowing it to happen will let the kid concentrate on the shopping. Toddlers love watching people and their toys will be a source of distraction. I say use whichever technique that works for your child.
If your toddler resists sitting in the cart for too long, try walking breaks. Some toddlers enjoy being pushed in the shopping cart and others will feel like their freedom is limited and they’re imprisoned. Their reaction depends on a million of factors, but what is important is for you to take action on it. If your toddler needs that walk, walk with him or her in one of the aisles and don’t wait until they start screaming and trying to stand up. For one thing, it’s dangerous. There have been numerous cases of toddlers falling out of carts and getting concussions and seizures.
If you think your child might need distraction, try distraction. Also don’t forget to bring finger food and make sure your child went potty before you come to the store. That will save you both a lot of trouble!