As I'm out and about places like the zoo, children's museum, grocery store, etc. more this summer with all 3 of my kids, I'm so glad I never started the precedent of getting them stuff everywhere we go. It is a rare treat that my kids get so much as a lemonade bought for them when we are out, much less a prize from the gift shop or candy aisle. I nearly always pack snacks, lunch and drinks from home.And the great thing is because I never started the practice, my kids don't know what they're missing, so they don't even ask!
I didn't realize how different it could be until recently another mom was complaining about how expensive Children's Museum trips were because they always have to go by the gift shop. It has never occurred to me to even go in that gift shop. I think the treat for my kids is the fun day at the museum. But now that my friend would like to visit the museum without buying something, her child is old enough to ask and beg for the gift shop treat. It is going to be a hard habit to break!
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I agree. I never got my kids into that habit either. The bad thing about it, though is that I never thought to bring snacks either. LOL! I figure if I'm not hungry, neither are you, right? Now I understand why they were so cranky on the trip home. LOL!
ReplyDeleteBlessings!
Wise, WISE woman!!! Mine were allowed to get something occasionally but only with their own money saved from gift giving occasions, jobs, etc. And then I even discouraged that because the thrill was usually quickly gone. Now many times, they are the ones who pass the museum store by!
ReplyDeleteWord Veri: Hoony - "Hoony, I don't think you need all that junk!"
So true. My boys know better, but my nephew is hungry or needs something from the store the minute he hits the door. It is going to be a hard habit to break. We're planning a trip right now and everything will be brought from home, my boys don't care where their food comes from they just want to go on the trip. Great topic!
ReplyDeleteWe do practice this as often as possible! We don't buy gifts generally outside of holidays or birthdays. It's just a place we would rather not go to.....and I agree, start early!! :)
ReplyDeleteAnd watch their faces light up when you decide to buy them a little something from the gift shop on a rare occasion! Now that's a treat!
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