March 19, 2010, Newsletter Issue #354: Taming Grocery Gimmes

Tip of the Week

After walking up and down the aisle at the grocery store with a frustrated child, it's easy to start giving in to "gimmie that" and "gimmie this." Bored kids can wear you down and make you do just about anything for a moment, a millisecond of peace, but many of us can't give into the gimmies because it's a strain on our pocketbooks, so here are a few tips to decrease the "I wants" at the store.
(1) Just like any good eating plan, don't take the kids to the store hungry. You're only asking for trouble. If you know you're going to be at the store during snack or meal times, bring snacks. If you buy them at the store, it sends a message that "I can get my treats when I'm there" instead of we brought this and don't need to get extra. Try to avoid naptime as well since their whining could be related to needing sleep.
(2) Set boundries. Before going into the store, explain to a school aged child and older, "We're going to the store for ____, that's it." Then STICK TO IT! If you give in once, they will know you'll do it again so tough it out and just say no!
(3) Have a list. I know it sounds boring, but having a grocery list not only speeds up your shopping time, therefore getting everyone home faster, it keeps you from wandering through the store, guessing what you do and don't need. It also keeps costs down. Go through the circulars for the grocery store before going as well to see if there are specials.
(4) Play the "I Spy" or "You find it" game. Tell the children you're going to play a game in the store and have them practice their shapes, colors, math, healthy foods and any other creative thing you can think of. Give them rewards of stickers (you purchase before hand), or a crayon for each right answer (bring a little baggie for them to put it in or you'll be picking up crayons all over the store), or you drawing a smiley face on their hands. It keeps them distracted and helps them learn.
Going to the store can be stressful and easier without children, but if you do have to go with kids, these things should help tame the grocery gimmes.
Good Luck!

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