Parenting tips: Surviving Christmas shopping with the kids

If you’re a busy parent or carer, you may be wondering how you’re going to manage the silly season shopping with the kids, without tears.

The good news is, with a little thoughtful planning, you can avoid the seasonal stress and help your kids be happy holiday helpers.

It's also a terrific opportunity to help kids build important life skills such as cooperation and responsibility.

Here are five simple Triple P tips for happy holiday shopping with kids: 

• Plan ahead. Choose the least busy time of day that suits your child’s routine. We all cope better when we’re calm and not tired or hungry.

• Talk before you go. Explain what you’re shopping for and involve your child in the plan around where you’re going and what you’re planning to buy. Let them know what you expect of them. Give them one or two jobs to do like choose a holiday ornament, bonbons, or other items on your list.

• Keep it short. Several brief trips are often better than one marathon shopping adventure. If your trip goes longer than planned, stop for a snack or drink. Break up the trip by doing something your child enjoys, like the free entertainment many shopping centres offer.

• Tune in and have fun. Be present with your child on the trip – talk, laugh and have fun together. Let your child know when they are doing something you like. Give them a smile, a hug or another sign of affection to let them know they are loved, and their behaviour is appreciated.

• Encourage kindness and goodwill to others. If your children are buying gifts for others, talk to them about what that person might like to receive and the best stores to visit before you set out. Praise them for thinking of others.

Remember, a little pre-shopping preparation can make for an enjoyable experience the whole family will treasure.

Triple P's free, evidence-based online support helps families across Australia raise confident, happy children. Learn more at: triplep-parenting.net.au