Errands with the Toddler: A Survival Guide
When it comes to running out to the toy store, or perhaps some ice cream, having the little tike tag along doesn’t anything more than saying the words ‘toy’ or ‘ice cream’. But have you ever uttered the letters D-M-V across your toddler? The look of dismay and perplexity will state the obvious. But you need to set out just the same and if the list includes other not-so-exciting forays to places like the post office, or pharmacy, it may be a mere few miles before there is a minor meltdown happening in the car and you’re just trying to keep your eyes on the road and not transform into the Incredible Hulk.
When running errands is required, here are a few things to help you get back home with the calmness and sanity of a Zen monk.
Keep it upbeat. Your children pick up on your mood faster than you can say ‘tantrum’ so it’s important to keep you voice positive and uplifting. Making the post office seem like a magic kingdom will create a mystic for your toddler just long enough to get the task accomplished. And before they realize the blue shirted worker behind the counter is not in fact Mickey Mouse as expected, you’ll already be heading out the door.
It’s spin time. Turn the tasks involved into a game. Let your little one be involved by allowing them to feel as if their job is the most important of all in this little adventure. Let them hand over the prescription to the pharmacist, or the money to the cashier.
Timing is everything. Don’t hit the bank, grocery store or post office at peak hours. Plan it out so that the chance of a line is minimal. A few moments saved here and there add up to less time wrestling with an impatient toddler.
Source: What To Expect
Image Source: Flickr