Taking your children to the grocery store can be a challenge, especially when they’re young. But it also can be an important way to spend time with your child and teach them a thing or two about food, a bit of math, some reading and how you expect them to behave in public. Try these techniques to turn grocery shopping into an adventure for both you and your little ones.
Have a meal or snack before you go. They call it ‘hangry’ for a reason. It goes without saying that children will have a better time — and behave better — if their tummies are full. Likewise, try to avoid taking them to the store when they are tired.
Turn it into a game
There are so many fun and educational games you can play at the grocery store. You can have your little shopping buddy guess the weight of different fruits and vegetables or have them guess the price of their favorite pantry staples. You could play “I Spy,” where you take turns spying certain colors and having your kids guess the object. Even if you don’t buy them, you can point out some fruit and vegetables they aren’t familiar with.
Spending time with you in the grocery store also can help them learn their letters and numbers or even do a bit of reading. Older children can learn about how to compare food labels and compare the cost of items per pound, ounce and other units of measurement.
Distract, distract, distract
Keeping your littlest ones distracted is key to keeping them happy for the duration of your shopping trip. Pack a few different options to keep them busy. Bring along their favorite toy or picture book, and you’ll be well prepared to capture their attention and keep them happy.
Make a plan, make a list
The trick to a grocery trip with little ones is to have a plan. Come prepared with a grocery list.
Let them pick
Kids never turn down an opportunity to have their voices heard, and grocery shopping is no exception. This doesn’t mean you have to let them choose everything that goes into your cart (you could end up with a lot of sweets that way!). Instead, have them choose between two options (“Should we have blueberries or strawberries with our oatmeal this week?”) or let them choose one favorite item to add to the cart. The participation is sure to help your little ones feel included!
Lower your expectations
As a parent, you know that things rarely go according to plan. And that’s OK! If your little ones aren’t perfect angels during a grocery trip, it’s not the end of the world. Your fellow shoppers will forgive a fussy toddler.
