Everyday Tips for Preventing Child Abuse:
	Make Shopping with your   Children Less Stressful.

Whether you're shopping at a grocery store, farmer's market or in a mall, shopping with children can be a trying and, at times, stressful experience. There are many sounds, sights and smells that stimulate children and attract their attention. Here are some tips to help you plan for a more pleasant shopping experience with your children:

• Don't wait until the end of the day to shop, especially if you or your children are tired. Make sure everyone is well-rested.

• Feed your children before you shop, especially for groceries. Your children should be less attracted to colorful packages when they aren't hungry.

• Talk with your children before you leave the house. Let them know that it is a special outing to go shopping with you.

• Set clear family shopping rules: ~"stay close to me" ~"no running in stores" ~"use your quiet voice" ~"when we leave, you can select a special treat if you remember the rules," etc.

• Dress in comfortable shoes and clothing (both you and your child).

• Keep your children in sight: hold hands, put them in a shopping cart or let them hold the cart with you.

• When possible, let your children make some decisions. "Would you like oranges or apples?" or "Do you like the blue shirt or the white one?"

• Give your children some responsibility by letting them steer the cart or picking out produce.

• Never leave your child unattended in a shopping cart.

• Praise and reinforce good behavior, "Thank you, you are being so helpful!" A hug is always reassuring.

What should I do if I see someone mistreating a child while I'm shopping or in a public place?

It can be very uncomfortable to watch someone who is out of control (adult or other youth) mistreat a child. it can be even more awkward to insert yourself into the situation, but there are some tactful ways you can help:

• Strike up a conversation with the person to direct attention away from the child.
  Begin with:
    ~ "My child has gotten upset like that too."
    ~ "Children can wear you out, can't they? Is there anything I can do to help?"
    ~ "She seems to be trying your patience, is she a little tired?"
    ~ "He has beautiful ..... (eyes)." [try to put the person in a positive mood].

• Divert the child's attention by talking to them, especially if they are misbehaving.

• Praise the child and the other person at the first opportunity.

• If the child is in danger, offer assistance. For example, if she is left unattended in a grocery cart, stand by the cart until the older person returns.

• Avoid negative, judgmental remarks or looks.

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