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This Genius Parenting Trick Will Help Avoid Tantrums in the Toy Aisle This Holiday Season

The holidays can be a tough time for parents and grandparents with little ones. A simple trip to the store can often end in a tantrum because their kid just noticed something they absolutely need for Christmas — and they refuse to leave the store without it. Luckily, one mom recently spilled her simple yet completely genius trick she uses to keep her own kids’ holiday meltdowns at bay. 

Kristina Watts shared the tip in a Facebook post that’s now been shared over 50,000 times. “Our trips to the store used to be a lot more painful this time of year,” Watts explained. “Toys are out in full force… And of course my kids WANT IT ALL. Now… If you have kids like mine… That want the shiny amazing things that fill Target, the grocery store, Office Depot, the gas station, and pretty much everywhere you go this time of year, this [trick] is for you.” 

Instead of letting your kiddos cause a scene or simply waltzing them right back out of the store without gathering any of the items you went in for in the first place, Watts claimed that taking a photo stops any cranky moods before they can even start. “Pause for a second,” she advised. “Comment on the thing they’re pointing out and say, ‘Let’s take a picture with it and send it to Santa so he knows you want it!’” 

Not only does this side-step any tears (from kids and parents), it’s also a great way to let family members or friends know exactly what to get your children for Christmas if they ask for some extra guidance. As we all know, “Santa” comes in many different forms — parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and more. See, we told you this was genius! 

According to Watts, this trick works so well that her daughter completely forgets about whatever prized item she had been clinging to and they’re able to finish their shopping trip in peace. Or as she said, “it’s magical.”

Try this out with the youngsters in your family the next time they get the “gimmes” while out shopping this holiday season and hopefully you’ll all leave the store with smiles on your faces!

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