We have all experienced it. Whether shopping in Merchant’s Square, the Prime Outlets, or the Pottery in Williamsburg(to name a few), shopping with kids is not always fun. You have your list and things you need to focus on, but you still have to be a parent. And add to that it is the holiday which means you are supposed to try to incorporate some fun while out with the family.
Regardless a few strategies to manage the process couldn’t hurt. Here we go..
Time
With little kids you know to be home by nap time. Think of it more of a countdown and less of an option. Remember:
Cranky kids = No Fun
Adjust your schedule accordingly allowing extra time to get back in time before the…Behavior MELTDOWN
Rest
You can try and attempt to be super parent on limited sleep but it is going to be awful stressful. Make sure you and the children get lots of sleep the night before.
Lists, Plans, & Contingencies
Have your list of everything you need to get done. Get it written and than accept this truth:
You probably will not get to it all…relax
Prioritize
Prioritize everything on the list by order of importance then group it by location. Naturally an area with 5 things very closely located offer an opportunity to get a lot done fast with minimal commuting.
Bathroom Planning
While we are on the subject of planning make sure you have public bathrooms accessible at all major points of your operation. With stops planned out you will be less likely to have to scramble to find bathrooms.
Distraction
Make sure your kids have things to do. Remember, either you keep them busy or they will keep you busy. For most ages the Ipad and cell phone are your go to source. It is really helpful if they have wifi access everywhere. If not make sure they have music, movies, and games that do not need a wifi connection.
Don’t forget the recharge
If you have more than one child have multiple portable car chargers ready to go with cables that fit the phones. When the power runs out you will lose your distraction. Keep the power flowing..
And you gotta feed them
That is where our Williamsburg Restaurant And Deli come in. We offer fresh made family favorites to save you from being hungry and falling into eating low nutrition junk food. From pizza to cheesesteaks overflowing with meat and cheese, we are the place you want to stop between those holiday errands and shopping.
Sources
20 tips for surviving shopping with kids. (2016, November 10). Retrieved November 21, 2017, from http://mumsgrapevine.com.au/2016/10/surviving-shopping-with-kids/