- They’re still learning how to behave.
- “All that trouble” is a sound investment in their future and your
peace of mind.
Here’s another idea. If the child is old enough and you won’t
worry about him, at the count of 3, have him wait for you—perhaps
next to one of the cash registers or next to the information booth—
until you’re done shopping. Don’t do this unless you’re sure the child
will be safe.
During any time-out, do not talk to the child. No lecturing,
screaming, or nagging is allowed. Keeping quiet is often very hard,
but after a while kids get the idea you mean business. And yes, there
have been parents who felt the fuss was bad enough that they left a
half-full grocery cart and went back home.
Quik TipWhen you’re out in public, there is always a room, something like a room, or a
symbolic location where a time-out can be served. And don’t forget your time-out
alternatives. Just because people are watching does not mean that you have to
be at your kids’ mercy!If the Kids Don’t Want to Go