How to Christmas Shop With Kids

Christmas shopping with children can be a hair-pulling experience. It is often necessary to bring children on shopping excursions, especially when they are giving gifts. Keep in mind the following tips to help make your next shopping excursion with children more joyful.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stroller
• Snacks
• Drinks
• Toys

1. Start early in the season. Spread the shopping out instead of trying to conquer it all in one trip.

2. Make a plan of action. Create a list of gift recipients and gift ideas. Make a list of stores to visit for each item on the list.

3. Shop when children are well rested and have full bellies. Schedule a lunch break during your shopping trip to refuel.

4. Put small children in a stroller or shopping cart. Bring toys for them to play with in the cart or stroller, snacks and a full sippy cup.

5. Take time to look at items that will interest the children. Let them browse through the toy aisle. Buy a small toy as a special reward for good behavior.

6. Stop at the restroom immediately after entering each store. It is inevitable that someone will have to go potty right in the middle of shopping or at the check-out.

7. Have fun. Talk to your children. Ask for their opinions on gift ideas. Let them be part of the experience instead of just being in tow.

Tips & Warnings

• Enlist a spouse or friend to help with the children.
• Get ice cream or hot cocoa when the shopping is done.
• Make a special visit to Santa before or after shopping.
• Keep your eye on children at all times. They can easily be lost in heavy crowds and shopping racks.
• Leave sick children with a sitter.

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