Discuss Expectations
I try to get to the store in the morning when minds are fresh and spirits are high. However, before we even leave the house, I let the children know what the plan is. First, I discuss with them how many stores we’ll be visiting. I’ve found that two is our limit. Then, I discuss with them my expectations about behavior and
Conduct while we are in the store. My main expectations are that they be in control of their body, do not touch items on the shelves unless I have asked them to get it, and speak in an inside voice. I then ask them if they have any questions. Once, we arrive in the parking lot of the store, I again remind them of the expectations we discussed earlier.
Bathroom Break
One of the most difficult things to do when you have multiple children with you, is to make a detour for the bathroom. I always insist that everyone, including myself, tries to use the bathroom before we set out on our grocery shopping adventure. Knowing that everyone has tried also helps me to determine how long we can reasonably be out before someone may need to go again. My goal is always to get back home so we don’t have to use a public bathroom.