Parenting Hacks- Edition 2

When the moment strikes and the wee darling you brought screaming into the world decides to show you, they've got the pipes to rival that of your delivery day, you start to rethink your tactics! Well it's time to form a line of defence against further outbursts. No, battening down the hatches isn't going to work this time! I'm afraid you are going to have to venture out of the house again with the cherub in tow eventually, for your sanity and theirs. Distraction is the key!

Carrying on the Parenting Hacks series, here are my top five tips to keep them happy (and you sane!) whilst out shopping with your little beauties...

GET THEM INVOLVED

Remember the most important thing in your life is the little person in the trolley in front of you, and obviously that does not change because you're trying desperately to get the shopping done. Let them spot the fruit and veg on the list, talk about what you are looking for, what it is, what you're going to use it for. Ask them what their favourite fruit is or how they like their eggs. Literally don't stop talking. The whole of the shop turns into a conversation. Involve them in the list, what are we (not I) looking for next? If they can read, get them to tell you, if they are old enough not to run off and cause you more stress, get them to fetch the thing and place it in the trolley. If they aren't old enough, then hand them things to place in the trolley for you. Choosing the shampoo? Lets smell it! Buying a crusty loaf? Break off a piece and let them nibble it to the checkout (just keep the wrapper barcode in tact!)

This is the most simple and most affective method of a calm shop. Theres no chance to have a breakdown, as you aren't giving them opportunity. If they ask for something, and you want to reward them; say they can have it when you get home, as they are your super helper! Never lead with "If you are good...", they are being good! You're showing you've noticed, you're not giving a warning. Praise goes along way!

SNACKS

Make sure you choose things that are easy for kids to hold and are easily disposed of.

Snacks are a great distraction, as I said above a crusty piece of bread will keep many kids happy, but there are other ways. How about trying a little bracelet they make at home before you go? Cheerios threaded on a little bit of string, is fun and nibbling the little rings off is an occupation. Added bonus- no "clean up in aisle 12!"

WITH A TWIST

Bring pipe cleaners! They are low profile and fit in your hand bag. When you are in need of a little extra help or a little quiet, hand them over to the kids! Ask them to decorate the trolley handle for you or to make a shape or an animal.

It will keep them 'tied up' longer than you would think!

PLAY A GAME

This might seem impossible while shopping, but I promise you it isn't. I have partaken in many a game of "I Spy..", "Guess the animal", several hundred "Thumb Wars" and "Rock, Paper, Scissors, whilst shopping.

They are quick games, and with " I Spy", I spied at least 10 items on my list so, pretty convenient too!

CONVENIENCE Keep it quick and bring a list! Let's try and make it as easy as possible for you and as quick and painless for your children. Don't bother trying to park the car near to the entrance where you are struggling to find a space, park near to the trolley bay as they are the most convenient when you are returning the trolley and have kids to carry around!

MOST IMPORTANT!- Do not get stressed if everything fails and your child has a complete melt down, just ignore it. Every parent in that shop should be on your side and will know how difficult a kid can be when they try their hardest. If they are not and are standing in judgement-they aren't worth worrying about anyway!

x