Back-to-School Survival Guide - Shopping With Young Kids

By RedFlagDeals.com Staff

From toddlers to tweens, back-to-school shopping with the younger kids can be a battle – but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're prepping them for pre-school or beyond, here are some simple strategies for surviving this annual shopping blitz.

Forget play dates, plan a shopping date. Invite another parent and let your children distract each other – or get grandma to tag along for backup.

Don't shop ‘til they drop. Most malls offer children's play areas, so avoid the stroller stir-crazies by letting the wee ones out to burn off some energy.

Do your homework. Don't get sucked into the mall vortex with screaming kids in tow – know what you need and where to get it. For tips on finding the best sales, you're in the right place; browse our deals and coupons to prepare.

Just say yes (well, once anyway). Kids get just as tired of hearing no as you get of saying it. Give in to one of their must-have-or-die purchase wishes and bask in their gratitude and compliance for the rest of your shopping trip.

Have snacks; will travel. Bring food and beverages from home instead of letting the kids fill up on overpriced, under-nutritious mall food.

What's good for the goose is good for the gosling. You've made them try on shoes and endure line-ups all day, so take some time to check out the latest video game or Justin Bieber doll they're dying to show you. Looking doesn't have to lead to buying; it's the effort that counts.