Parenting Wins at Christmas TimeSýnishorn

DAY TWO - SHOPPING WITH KIDS

Let’s face it – sometimes it’s easier to leave the kids at home when you go to the store. (And sometimes that’s a good idea, if you can manage it). But, your kids need to learn how to behave in public, and how to obey you no matter where you are, even at the store.

So here are 5 tips that can help make kid-included trips to the store more peaceful for everyone:

1. If they’re very young (4 and under), plan in advance. Whenever possible, make sure your child isn’t tired, hungry, or wet before you head for the store. Bring a healthy snack along. Keep your trip short – don’t expect a child this young to be able to go for hours and hours.

2. Talk with them first. Give your child fair warning as to the purpose of this trip, and let them know in advance if they will be getting anything. It’s only fair to let them know ahead of time, and once in a while get them a treat if they behave well.

3. If they’re older (5 and over), get them involved in the process as your helper. If you’re grocery shopping, assign them to fetch things in the aisle you’re in (if they’re old enough), or choose things off the shelf for you. If you’re shopping for Grandma’s Christmas gift, get their input and let them be part of choosing her gift.

4. Correct them if they need it. Remember, the Bible gives children one commandment for their life – obey your parents (Ephesians 6:1). Crying because you say no, running away, etc. isn’t the same as obeying, and needs correcting. Don’t just walk away from a child having a tantrum – that’s not correction. It’s inconvenient, but it’s important to take them to the car and correct them right then.

5. Be safe. It’s a good idea to contain small children by putting them in a grocery cart (only sitting please!) or stroller. Even consider a leash in crowded places. Train your child to stay with you.

Bonus tip: Try not to make shopping your family’s only recreational activity. We don’t want to raise a generation of consumers -- there are so many other great ways to bond and grow as a family.