Grocery shopping alone can be a tedious chore, but add two kids into the mix—one of whom is an 11-year-old nonverbal child on the autism spectrum—and it becomes an epic adventure. As a parent, I’ve navigated the grocery store battlefield numerous times. Through my many experiences, I’ve come up with a strategy that transforms this daunting task into a manageable (and sometimes even enjoyable) experience. Here are my tips and tricks for surviving the grocery store with two kids and a dash of autism.

Preparation Is Key

Before we even leave the house, I ensure we are well-prepared. I make a list, check it twice, and prioritize the items. This minimizes the time we spend wandering the aisles. Knowing what we need and where to find it can cut our shopping time in half.

I also make it a habit of telling my daughter we aren’t there to shop for things that aren’t on the list. Trust me, it helps.

Embrace Technology… Even In A Grocery Store

My 11-year-old son finds grocery stores overwhelming—the bright lights, the sounds, the crowds. Honestly, who can blame him? So, to help him cope, I let him bring his iPad. Hooking it up to my hotspot so he can watch his favorite shows while we walk through the store has been a game changer. It keeps him engaged and helps him tune out the sensory overload around him. If your child has a similar need, don’t hesitate to use technology to your advantage. It’s not just a distraction; it’s a tool that makes the experience easier for everyone involved.

Just turn the volume down a little. But, honestly I’ve never had an exerience where other people in the store were bothered by his iPad. He takes it everywhere we go.

Keep Them Busy In The Grocery Store

Giving my son a job to do, like pushing the cart, makes a huge difference. It gives him a sense of responsibility and keeps his hands and mind occupied. With siblings, you have to give the others a job too. Otherwise, the issue of jealousy will be added to the grocery shopping experience. So, I give his little sister a job as well—whether it’s holding the shopping list, picking out fruits and veggies, or helping me find items on the shelves. Kids love to feel useful. These small tasks make them part of the process rather than passive participants.

The Power of Snacks

Here’s a tip that might raise some eyebrows. But, I’m going to need you to trust me on this one. Just hear me out because it works. Don’t be afraid to open a box of something you’re going to buy anyway.

Sometimes a cookie or a pack of fruit snacks can be the difference between a meltdown and a smooth shopping trip. Grocery store staff typically understand, especially when they see you’re a parent trying to make it through the store with two kids in tow. As long as you’re planning to pay for it, there’s no harm in opening it up early.

Bring Backup

If possible, bringing an extra person along is invaluable. This extra set of hands can make all the difference. For example, my son can’t handle standing in line at the checkout. So, having another adult who can either check out for me or take him to the car is essential. This way, we avoid a potential meltdown and survive checking out the same way we survived shopping.

Plan for Breaks

Sometimes, the store can be too much, even with all these strategies. If you notice your child starting to get overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a break. Find a quiet corner or step outside for a few minutes. Giving your child (and yourself) a moment to reset can prevent things from escalating. This is where bringing backup is invaluable.

Stay Positive and Flexible

No trip is perfect, and things don’t always go as planned. Keeping a positive attitude and staying flexible is crucial. Sometimes, you’ll need to abandon the cart and try again later. That’s okay. Celebrate the small victories—each successful trip builds confidence and resilience for both you and your kids.

I can’t count the number of times I’ve abandoned a shopping trip and gone home because it was just too much. There is no harm in realizing your child just can’t handle the store that day.

Final Thoughts

Surviving a grocery store trip with two kids, especially when one has special needs, requires preparation, patience, and flexibility. By using technology, keeping them busy, bringing backup, and being ready with snacks, you can transform this daunting task into a more manageable adventure. Remember, you’re not alone in this. Many parents are navigating the same challenges, and it’s okay to use whatever tools and strategies work best for your family. Happy shopping!

Do you have any tips or techniques for surviving a grocery store? Let us know in the comments.