I try as much as possible to not shop with my daughter. It isn’t fair to her as a 1 year old to sit and behave while I try on clothing. Plus I am a firm believer in taking some me time when I can get it. That said I can’t always leave my daughter with someone when I need to or want to go out shopping.

Here are 5 tricks I use to successfully navigate a clothes shopping trip with a little one.

1. Bring snacks.

Snacks are my way of keeping my daughter from taking a tantrum when we are out shopping. And it is a good way to ensure she is getting enough to eat as little tummies need multiple small meals as opposed to 3 square a day. This will keep her distracted while I peruse the aisles or slow down to window shop from my usual speed walking pace.

2. Only go in if you are serious

When my daughter was younger she would cry or wake up from her slumber as soon as I would stop walking. So there is no need to upset or wake a young baby if you don’t need to. Only go in somewhere if you are serious about shopping. If you are just killing time or mildly curious wait until you are on your own to check out the shop.

3. Be mindful of space

There are many stores that strollers don’t really maneuver through all that well. In fact I am surprised how many baby & kids boutiques do not accommodate strollers all that well. Watch what you are rolling over and try not to destroy the store on your way through. If the store is not stroller friendly either accept that you will not be shopping there today, Or ask for help to get in and out.

4. Make use of the stores return and exchange policies.

Usually I am not an advocate of not trying something on. But if you know the brand and your sizing for that item try it on at home. Most stores have a reasonable return and exchange policy so that you can switch sizes if need be. Not trying on an item  will shorten your stay in the shop.

5. Keep your shopping trip to a reasonable length and throw in some fun

Babies and toddlers don’t get shopping yet. But they do understand that your focus isn’t on them. Keep your shopping trip to what you know your child can handle. I try to keep mine to about an hour and since my daughter thinks its fun that we go fast in the stroller I try to run every now and then to make her laugh.

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A big thank you to Jane at torontoshopoholic.com for this post. Torontoshopoholic.com has a wealth of Toronto shopping tips by neighborhood, by shopping need… and of course Jane’s favorite pics – she has great taste.

About Shelagh Cummins

Shelagh Cummins is the founder, editor and Mum-in-chief at Practicalmum.com – an online community parenting resource & blog. She is also the Principal at BizTrainHer.com, a boutique firm specializing in designing, developing and facilitating training for women in business.

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