Being a parent has thought me a few very important things. And I’d like to share some that may come in handy especially when you’re out in public. It’s not easy, but we can only to be better each time we go out, right?
First of all, you “always have to be prepared.” Always bring wipes, paper towel, a drink, a snack and a jacket in the car. The worst thing is to have to come home or drive by a store when you’re already stressed or tired.
Next, you have to “plan ahead.” It’s very important to map out your activities for the day to make it the least stressful yet productive outing that you can. A good example is planning a play date after a nap to avoid grumpy kids.
Talking about planning ahead, it’s also helps to have a “plan b.” Things almost never turn out the way you want it to be, so it’s best to be prepared. For example, if you plan to go to the Zoo and then it rains, make sure you have a back up plan.
“Consider going to the bathroom.” Make sure you make your child use the restroom or change your baby’s diapers before you leave the house. It can be stressful to have to stop driving or looking for a place for a child to use the restroom when you’re driving on the highway or at a place that may not have any restrooms available.
“Set some ground rules.” It doesn’t matter if your child is 9 months or 9 years old. Make sure you discuss appropriate/acceptable behavior and the reason why. Children are like sponges. How will they know unless you tell them?
“Stick to your guns.” Be prepared to be tested by your child. Children are so different in public. If you tell them that you will leave the store if they start throwing a tantrum, then make sure you keep your word. This is the only way they’ll understand that you mean what you say.
“If your child chooses to misbehave or disobey in public, be ready to set them aside and talk to them.” Being out can cause your child to act up because they’re out of their normal routine. It’s important to let your child know that you’re still responsible for them and that you’re paying attention to what they’re doing, both good and bad.
For more tips, check out:
Tips on driving a car with an infant
A happy mommy's Weblog 
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