Add a little Cheer when Holiday Shopping with the Kids

Going shopping with kids is usually much more of a chore than a fun afternoon out. It can be argued that holiday shopping can be a little chorish as well. If the only way you are going to get some Christmas gifts purchased before the clock strikes zero is with the kids in tow, why not try and make it fun?

Kids obviously get caught up in all aspects of the season. Holiday shopping surely will add a little to the spectacle, and might even help teach them what the season is about, too.

Adding cheer to a shopping trip will get those lists checked off without taking the shine off the season.

Santa’s Helpers

Speaking of lists, have the little ones help create them for other family members by brainstorming what everyone would like. Then have each kid help mark them off.

While out shopping have the children take those sought-after items off the shelf. It will help them feel involved in the giving, even if they can’t buy the gifts.

And that also should help them realize the benefits of giving. They might even be more interested, if even for a brief moment, in seeing their mom or brother open a present on Christmas morning than they are about opening their own.

Holiday Parties

While out in the bustle of the season, notice all the activity taking place.

Have the kids count all the different Christmas carols they hear over the loud speakers in the shopping center. Have a contest to see who can name the most or be the quickest with the title of the next holiday ditty. In the car take part in a Christmas karaoke party.

While hopping from store to store, judge which one has the best looking holiday displays and decorations. Count all the different kinds of Christmas trees and light displays you see.

Then have the kids add up the total of all the purchases throughout the day. Well, maybe don’t go that far.

Christmas Cookies

Take a break during the outing and get some holiday-themed treats. There surely are some eggnog milkshakes to be found or ginger bread cookies to sample. Start making plans for some of the treats the family might make and indulge in as the big day gets closer, and possibly go and get some of the ingredients.

Then make plans for the next store to hit to finish up this trip and head for home knowing that holiday shopping with the kids didn’t squish the Christmas spirit in any family member.

And when all that is accomplished, take advantage of all the retailers’ later Christmas shopping hours and stock up for the kids once they are in bed.