Let’s face it, sometimes you just need a little peace and quiet when you’re out with the little ones. Here are five clever strategies that have saved my sanity more times than I can count.
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Sweeten the Deal with Candy
Candy is a powerful tool in my parenting arsenal. I’ve found that the best option is a lollipop, like a Dum-Dum. They take forever to finish, buying you precious moments of silence while they savor the flavor. Starbursts are another great option since they’re chewy and keep them occupied longer than a handful of M&Ms. However, I’ve learned the hard way to steer clear of Now & Later candies, which are more trouble than they’re worth. Trust me, the last place you want to be is at the dentist’s office when you just need a break! -
Toy Promises from the Dollar Section
When it comes to keeping the kids entertained, I’m not above a little bribery. A quick trip to the dollar section at Target can work wonders. I’ll tell them, “We’re going to Target, and you can pick out something from that super fun aisle!” They don’t need to know I’m also there for household essentials like toilet paper. This little distraction can turn a potential meltdown into a manageable outing. -
Starbucks Treats
You might think Starbucks is an odd choice for kids, but hear me out! When I’m grabbing my favorite drink, the kiddos often want a chocolate milk as well. Depending on how my budget looks, I may indulge them. I’ve even started using it as leverage: “If you behave, we can swing by Starbucks afterward.” It’s amazing how quickly they can transform from crying to calm at the mere mention of a chocolate milk! -
Cold Hard Cash
Let’s get real—I can be a bit of a pushover when the situation calls for it. In desperate moments, I’ll whip out some change. Quarters work for my youngest, but my older child is onto me and craves the bigger bills. He’s got a knack for suggesting, “Just swipe your card, Mom,” whenever I say no. So, when I run into a fellow mom at the grocery store and my child is on the verge of a meltdown, I might just resort to cash to save face. -
The Power of Car Keys
Every parent knows the magic of buttons. My toddler is obsessed with pressing anything that beeps. If we’re out shopping and he’s getting restless, I’ll hand him the garage door opener. The excitement of pushing that button can distract him long enough for me to catch a breather. If I can’t find it, I might give him my car keys, knowing I’ll hear the alarm go off shortly. Sure, there’s a risk involved—like the potential for a stranger to rummage through my car—but hey, I’ve got insurance, right?
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Summary
Parenting can be chaotic, but with a few simple tricks, you can keep the noise level down and maintain your sanity. Whether it’s candy, toy rewards, or a quick trip to Starbucks, a little creativity goes a long way. Just remember, always have a backup plan—because you never know when you’ll need to pull out the big guns, like cash or car keys!