6 top tips for stress-free shopping with your toddler

It’s the weekly dilemma: you need to get the essentials and, most importantly, get out of the house, but you’ve got a toddler in tow. It could be a challenging experience for you both, but it needn’t be. Get prepared and you’ll be cheering as you reach the checkout.

Food first

They say it’s best not to go food shopping when you’re hungry, but where there’s a toddler involved, it’s a recipe for disaster. Meltdown in aisle 4? No thank you. Give your toddler their lunch before you head off so food isn’t their sole thought and avoid the lunchtime rush so you can shop when it’s quietest.

Pack smart

You’ll need all the usual supplies but with an emphasis on keeping your little one occupied and entertained while you tick off your grocery list. Pack a few snacks so they’re not distracted by all the food around them and give them something to hold, whether that’s a toy or an item you’re planning to buy.

Keep them comfy

Once you arrive, grab yourself a trolley – this way you won’t need to wrestle with a stroller and a weighty basket of food. Get them settled into the trolley seat and strap them in so they’re safe and secure. They’re not the most comfortable contraptions, and an uncomfortable little one is heading straight for tantrum territory, so consider taking a small blanket or cushion for them to sit on.

Give them (some) freedom

If you know your little one isn’t going to want to sit for a long time, make sure you take a harness with you. They’ll feel like they have the freedom to wander, while you’re actually in control. They can stretch their legs and tire themselves out too – just watch what those little hands are reaching for.

Keep them busy

Make the trip to the grocery store fun for your toddler and give them a job. Get them involved by asking them to help you find items in the store (while staying with them of course). Can they find their favorite fruit, or pick up that packet of cereal? If they’re in the trolley seat, hand them items and ask them to put them in the trolley for you.

Shop online

Sometimes, the easiest option really is the best option! If you’re stuck for time or if you or your toddler are not in the mood for an outing, shopping online can save you a lot of time and hassle. Or you could order your biggest, bulkiest items online so you can just pick up the smaller, easy-to-carry things to keep your hands freer for your little one