Of shopping carts and toddler tantrums

Ask any mum of a toddler her worst nightmare, and it would perhaps be having to take her toddler shopping with her. But groceries have to be bought regularly, visits to supermarkets and shops are mandatory, and always finding someone to mind the child at home is not an option. Poornima Makaram discovers how to do it best

WELL FED EQUALS WELL BEHAVED

Gina Fernandez, mother of a two-year-old Rayna, believes a happy and content child is better able to cope with the shopping mayhem. Her advice is, “Make sure your baby is well-fed and has had a nap before leaving home. Sleepy and hungry children are difficult to handle even at home. It may be a good idea to play with her for a bit, so she is fresh and cheerful before you set out. That way, you don’t have to deal with crankiness and tantrums while shopping.”

“It is also a good idea to take her favourite toy along or even a colourful book that she can look at when sitting on the stroller. I carry my daughter’s favourite flavoured milk or juice box so I don’t have to hunt for something to feed her. Sometimes, just having something familiar around like a toy can pacify and divert a child enough so you can get your shopping done peacefully,” she says.

GO OFF-PEAK