Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Christmas Shopping – Don’t take the kids!

So I was in a mall last week and since its early December there is always something to pick up. The catch – I had my six year old son with me. So I had to carefully plan my route.

While in Zellers looking at Olympic wear, I made a great effort to ensure we were no where near the toy department. I wasn’t up for the “Mommy, I want…” OR “Can I just have this treat?” My answer is generally no – as I know it is for most parents - because it isn’t what we were in the store for!

BUT the poor mother ahead of me… she had baby in the cart and a 2 year old walking along beside who saw something he felt he couldn’t live without… and dove on it! Well, when mom said no, the tears started, then the stamping foot and we all know what comes next – lying on the floor in a fit till mom gives in! We as the parent have a choice – leave all the items, pick up both children and drag them out of the store OR give in and purchase the $10 or $20 item that will most likely be broken or forgotten before it’s home.

The moral of the story – if you are on a tight budget, you can’t give in to the temper tantrums. Or, just leave the kids at home to complete the festive shopping!

1 comments:

  1. I agree! Having worked in retail for six years, this is the exact reason why I have no desire to have kids at this point in my life. I firmly believe that if you don't carry a wallet, stay out of the malls at Chrstimas - that means kids. If malls were adult-only venues, there would be no tantrums, no strollers, less congestion and more Christmas cheer.

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