Struggling with toddler tantrums at the supermarket

sparky

So…anyone else have this running battle with their kiddo? Shopping trips have turned into a mine-field. Little ones throwing massive wobblers in the middle of the biscuit aisle because we’ve said “no” to third packet of high-sugar, overpriced junk, and instead opted for some much healthier snacks.

Nothing like a dramatic meltdown at ALDI to make that shopping trip 10 times more stressful, right? 🙂

I’ve been there with my four-year-old. She used to be as calm as a sleeping kitten. But now? Turned into an opinionated, wilful drama queen who can kick up a storm when she doesn’t get her way.

I’ve read all those parenting books, the ones promising golden insights to dealing with tantrums…but let’s face it. When your kiddo is in the middle of a scream-fest right beside the cucumbers, all that advice just flies outta your head.

I’ve tried distractions, bribes (don’t judge, we all have those desperate moments), sternness, you name it…few times I’ve even left the shopping cart and walked out. Stifling those tears until I’ve got home and could let it all out. It’s just that immense feeling of frustration…and embarrassment? Should we even feel embarrassed though? It’s not like we’re the first parents facing this.

How do you all manage 🤔

mopsy

Oh my friend, you’re preaching to the choir here!🤦‍♀️ Toddler tantrums bring out the Olympic level of patience in parents sometimes. But you know what, breathe in, breathe out. Things get better, I promise. My son used to throw the most theatrical tantrums over not just the biscuits but, get this, even the broccoli. Yeah, who’d have thought?! I found that involving him in the shopping process helped. Like giving him simple tasks, picking his own snacks out of a healthy selection or even letting him push the trolley. It kind of preoccupies them and makes them feel “grown-up”. And as for the embarrassment, different audiences, same show. Give yourself a pat on the back for getting through it! You are doing great! 👏👏👏

kath77

Oh, tell me about it! They’ve got such a flair for drama at that age, don’t they? 😅 Mine once cried ’cause I wouldn’t buy her a can of beans - she doesn’t even eat beans!. Turning shopping into a game like you described, sorta helped. Something like a mini scavenger hunt. Also, if you can squeeze in some shopping while they’re napping or with a sitter, it can be real peace of mind. You’re not alone, we’ve all been there. Mum on! 💪🍼