(WOIO) - The hustle and bustle of Black Friday is stressful enough without toting around a temperamental tot.
Dr. Margaret Richards is a child psychologist at Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital.
She says parents may be able to avoid embarrassing store tantrums by telling kids what to expect.
"Adults are tense, kids are tense, trying to get in and out and the lines are long, so setting your expectations before you leave the house is very important, so letting your child know, OK we're going to this store, we're picking up these things, there's going to be a lot going on, a lot of people, it's going to be very noisy so, outlining what the rules are," Dr. Margaret Richards.
Dr. Richards suggests telling kids what's expected of them and explaining the consequences for bad behavior.
However, if you can't avoid a temper tantrum she advises parents to try finding a quiet spot in the store or going to your car to sit with your child for a time out.
She also reminds parents to prepare themselves that holiday shopping may be rough regardless and that they should be flexible and ready to intervene when necessary.
"If you feel like your child is at a point where their tantrum is legendary and is just going to be really awful for everyone, if your child is little enough you can pick them up and carry them out to the car and just end the shopping trip, that may be the best option b/c certainly there's going to be a big audience and certainly it is uncomfortable for the child but also for the parent," Dr. Margaret Richards.
Dr. Richards says bringing along something to keep your child busy in the cart or making them your official helper can help make shopping a positive experience.
