How to Involve Children in Grocery Shopping
*as narrated from a Grocery Shopping Dad
Children benefit from daily, real-life, practical experiences that will help them understand the world around them and how they will integrate into that world. They delight in small medial tasks such as grocery shopping to feel connected with how the family is nourished and come together over meals. Your child may also feel invested in meals and food being prepared, encouraging them to taste and explore a variety of eats if they have been a part of the process.
Give yourself plenty of time
Make a list with the kids ahead of time, discussing meals being prepared for the week. The list can be written, or drawn with pictures if they cannot yet read.
They can push their own cart, carry a small basket or carry their own canvas bag from home.
If old enough, give them items to find in the store- start with simple things they can recognize from the label (snack foods, cereals, etc.). Then move to more advanced objects that require some reading ability (canned beans, vegetables, specialty items). Step back so they do not feel watchful eyes on them. Even if standing at the end of the aisle while they grab a box of cereal, give them space so they are empowered in their independence.
Choosing fruits and vegetables is a tactile experience, discuss ripe fruits, looking for blemishes.
If they are of reading age, they can go over the list to make sure that all items were collected.
They can load up their conveyor belt and assist with the payment. To familiarize them with the value of money, they can pay in cash or card. Acknowledge the total amount due, so they understand how much money is being given.
When they get home, they can help unload and put away groceries.
