In this snapshot, you can see my little one enjoying a Fruit Roll-Up amidst the produce, while on the opposite side, she’s happily nibbling a cookie from the bakery section.
The Game Plan
Here’s the game plan: Every Saturday, I take my delightful whirlwind to the store. We always opt for the pink car cart—the only one she’ll accept. The black and blue carts? Forget it. They might as well be invisible.
As we wander past the apples, I spot a display of Fruit Roll-Ups. I hand one to her, and it’s like setting a timer. I have until she’s devoured it to gather every item on my list from the produce aisle to the bakery, where they generously offer free cookies to kids. If she finishes that treat before we reach the bakery, it’s game over—turning her into a sticky-faced tornado of screams.
Fortunately, this little routine works like a charm 95% of the time. Anyone who’s shopped with toddlers knows those odds are a small victory. I can’t recall when this strategy began, but honestly, who cares? It gets the job done!
For the Super-Parents
Now, I can already hear some super-parent out there ready to share their wisdom on how to keep kids calm without resorting to this Fruit Roll-Up and cookie tactic. If that’s you, I suggest you stop reading now because this isn’t meant for you. It’s for those of us who have our quirky methods that make the chaotic adventure of shopping with a toddler just a bit more manageable.
I totally get it—kids crave routine and treats. If that means rolling through the aisles in a pink car cart, plopping an open Fruit Roll-Up on the checkout counter, and dealing with a toddler who has cookie crumbs in her hair, then so be it.
Because in the end, it may seem wild, but you’ve successfully navigated another shopping trip. And that, my friends, makes you a true champion.
More Parenting Tips
If you’re looking for more tips on navigating the parenting journey, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination. Remember, whether it’s shopping or preparing for a family, having a game plan can be a lifesaver. For those interested in home insemination, this article can provide you with valuable insights, and you might also want to visit Make a Mom for expertise on artificial insemination kits.
Summary
Shopping with toddlers can be a challenge, but with a little creativity and some strategic treats, it can be manageable. Embrace the chaos and find what works for you, because each successful outing is a win!