Tips for Grocery Shopping with Kids

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Getting the grocery shopping done can definitely seem like a task these days. It has to be done though. For some reason, the people in this house want to eat. And they do it every day. I like being able to get in and out of the store quickly, but I also need to make sure I get everything I need!

Sure… I could wait until Tom gets home at night and go then, but that’s really not always an option. Some nights he doesn’t get in until almost 8 and then we eat dinner, put the boys to bed, and I don’t feel like running out then. Don’t get me wrong, I do love grocery shopping alone, but we don’t all get that luxury once kids are in the picture. Hopefully these tips will help you get your grocery shopping done with kids in tow while you keep (what’s left of) your sanity.

1. Timing– Make sure it’s not naptime. If anyone needs a nap, it’s probably not going to go well. For us, I know the best time for us to go is first thing in the morning. We’ll usually try to leave at the same time Daddy does for work. It’s just easier that way. We all get ready and head out the door together. Grocery shopping can be exhausting enough on its own, you don’t want the kids to start out tired and cranky. Also, be sure to feed the kids before you head out or at least have snacks with you to keep them happy until mealtime!
2. Meal Plan– If you meal plan, you have a purpose while going through the grocery store. I used to do well with meal planning, but started to lose steam after awhile. We’ve recently been using eMeals and it takes all the work out of meal planning. We have the Kid-Friendly Meal Plan, but there are a lot of different meal plans to choose from.
3. Set Expectations– Before you attempt to shop, make sure the kids know what to expect. Will you be getting the car cart? Remind them of the usual rules: “Don’t touch anything unless I tell you”, “Stay right with Mom”, “Listen”, and whatever other rules and expectations you have.
4. Make a Grocery List– When you’re shopping with the kids, it’s really easy to get distracted and forget what you even went to the store to get. When you make a list, you’re able to check things off as you go and ensure you go home with what you need. If you decide to try eMeals, your weekly meal plan will come with a grocery list! One less thing you need to worry about.
5. Keep Kids Involved– Charlie gets really excited about picking out fruits and veggies, which I think is pretty awesome. Not only does this keep him interested and happy during our shopping trip, but I know he’ll actually eat what he picks out. Win-Win! Charlie’s big enough now that he can get something if I tell him to and put it in the cart. All kids like to be the helper and this makes them feel needed and involved during the trip. If you want, you can make a little list just for the kids. Cut out pictures of what you’ll be buying from the weekly ad, paste them on a piece of paper and it now becomes a treasure hunt for the kids.
6. Rewards– I’m not above rewarding kids for good behavior. If Charlie makes it through the store with minimum amounts of whining or complaining, he can pick out a “treat” when we’re at the end. For Charlie, it’s usually a little chocolate milk or pie.
7. Have Fun– If you’re stressing out, the kids are going to stress out. Keep your attitude up and play along with them while shopping. We enjoy playing I-Spy and talking about pricing, which numbers are bigger and smaller. Trust me, everyone will go home happier if you’re relaxed and just have fun.