Kids Making Errands Stressful? Try These 5 Tips!

Although doing errands is already stressful, doing it with your children can be even more so. When kids are involved, running errands takes on a whole new meaning, and it can be a bit of a struggle for parents. It can be exhausting getting them ready to leave the home, handling distractions in the market, and watching their every step to ensure they don't cause trouble.

Since parenting necessitates juggling several tasks at once, you'll ultimately master the art of multitasking. Indeed, becoming a mom entails figuring out how to work childcare into your regular schedule. Regardless of the state of the planet, there will be days when you need to drag your kids along with you to run errands rather than leave them at home alone. And, let's face it, it's a conundrum trying to decide whether to leave the kids at home or with the neighbours or to take them with you so you can keep an eye on them.

All of this can be overwhelming, but don't worry; we've got you covered! Try these ideas the next time you're running errands with your kids to make the trip more enjoyable for them and less exhausting for you!

1. Work in Line with Their Timetable

Adults are usually at their best because they are well-fed and well-rested, so why should children be any different? Running errands will flow easily if the kids are fed and rested, so do so when they've eaten, before they get up in the morning, or after their naptime, when they'll be energised.

While you're at it, make adjustments to your calendar. Mornings are when many parents have the most control. It's also the time of day when supermarkets are less busy and lines are shorter, so you won't be as overwhelmed dealing with the children.

1. Make Errands a Learning Experience

You should transform grocery shopping into a learning experience. For instance, if you're shopping for fruits, have your kids count each one as they place it in the cart or ask them questions like, "We need 5 oranges, but only 3 are in the bag, so how many more can we pick out?" Make your errands more interesting for all of you by being imaginative with the kids!

1. Give Them a Job to Do

Children enjoy assisting with tasks, so why not assign them basic duties?  For example, if you have older children, they will assist you by pointing out the item you need from the shopping list when you place it in the cart, or simply by assisting you in finding an object that you need. They'll be more interested and enjoy assisting you with the mission if you do it this way.

1. Bring an Array of Distractions

For a boy, going to the dry cleaners or the bank may be tedious. There isn't a single thing they can do. It's important to be prepared in such a situation. Carry a favourite toy or game for your kids. For example, their favourite stuffed animal or doll, or even a colouring book and crayons. Even if it's only a blank piece of paper and a pencil, give it to them and they'll be able to make the most of their idle time.

1. Play with the Children for a While

Let's face it, errands are boring, so it's no joke that kids get bored easily. When you're with your kids, it's crucial to take short, enjoyable breaks in between activities. Take your kids out for ice cream or to a local park for 15 minutes after you've done your grocery shopping so you can rest and have some fresh air while they enjoy the swings. When you've done all of your duties for the day, a sweet surprise can come in handy. Treat yourself and the kids to something enjoyable at the end of the day.

Remember that running errands with the kids doesn't have to be a frustrating experience. They enjoy being with you and offering them small jobs would allow you to bond with them while still allowing them to feel interested in "adult" activities.