When you have a toddler, you may sometimes feel like it is quite a procedure to go out anywhere. Going out with your toddler, whether it is to the grocery store, the playground, or other places that you want to go or need to go is a good thing. Both of you benefit from contact with other people, and going to different places expands your toddler’s view of the world and gives him or her many opportunities for learning. It is worth the effort to go places with your toddler in tow, and the good news is that often a little advance planning can help you to avoid many of the headaches and hangups that you are used to encountering during your outings.
The key to successful outings with your toddler is planning ahead. Sometimes a detail as ordinary as what time you choose to go wherever you are going can make the difference between a successful outing and a disaster. For example, last week I took the kids out for a long day of playing at the park, errands, and grocery shopping. We left the house right after breakfast, and we had a great day. Today I went with them to the same area for a shorter outing – shopping and some playground time. We did not leave until right after lunch and our outing was not as good. Morning trips seem to work better for us.
Also, knowing what potential pitfalls await at the places that you will be going can help you to plan around them. For example, if you are going somewhere where you know you will have to spend time waiting in line or in a waiting room, bring some snacks and toys to banish boredom before it even begins. If you know where specific items that your toddler always demands are located in the store that you are going to, try to avoid that area so that you can avoid the tussle that will inevitably ensue if you pass through there. Anticipating your toddler’s needs for entertainment, food, drink, diaper changes, naps, and other things can help you to plan errands and other outings that you can enjoy together rather than suffer through.