Parents of Preschoolers  Discussion Forum

What should I do if my child won't stop screaming because I don't buy him some toys in the store? Arushi replied. I work in a grocery store and I see this with candy in the checkout line on a regular basis. I?ve heard kids scream, threaten their parents?you name it. I secretly cheer every single time a parent doesn?t give in. One time this kid thought he was being smart. Despite being told ?no,? he snatched up a candy bar, ripped it open, and took a bite right in front of Mom. Mom snatched that bar out of his hand, instructed me to scan it, and then had me immediately toss it into the trash. ?You?re not the boss here,? she declared firmly. ?I am.? The look on that kid?s face was priceless as she dragged him out of the store. Lady, whoever you are, you are my hero to this day. You rock! Swapna replied. I own a toy store, so I see this every single day. I see it handled well, and I see it handled terribly. Based on my observations, here is the best way to handle it. First, don't be embarrassed that your child is screaming, everyone with a kid has been there. If you aren't worried about the perceptions of other people or bothering them, it is easier to handle the situation calmly. Next, DO NOT BUY THE TOY! Yes, the toy store owner said don't buy the toy. You will only be rewarding the behavior. Finally, put a moratorium on buying things for your child while they are with you. If your child behaves well in a store, go back later and get the thing they asked for. After a while of understanding they don't get things when they go to the store, there will be less tantrums. Another thing you can try is saying before you go in, ?we aren't getting anything today, but you can show me some things you like for (insert upcoming holiday).? Then stick to it! Don?t buy anything! Many stores have wish lists either physically or online- if they do, letting your child fill out a wishlist can be a good way to ease the tantrums too. Good Luck!