Tips for Leaving The Gift Shop Unscathed

One of the most dreaded places for parents, while on vacation, is the gift shop. There’s nothing like paying an arm and a leg to go through an attraction, only to be forced to donate an organ and a gallon of blood at the gift shop. There should be no question that paying admission prices are usually worth the entertainment and educational value of the attraction. But, unfortunately, standard gift shop fare tends to be the same type of useless crap with a logo pasted on it.

To your kid, there’s nothing better than a stuffed animal inside a furry purse with a zoo logo on it. You know it’s not worth the price, but that doesn’t solve the issue of convincing your kids. What is the attraction? Are they dehydrated and brightly colored plastic is their oasis? Or is it just the appeal of a toy-like object? Whatever the reason, you need to know how to deal with it. Here are a few tips:

PRACTICE WHAT YOU PREACH
The first thing you need to check is that you aren’t the one leading the gift shop shopping spree. If your kids see you going ga ga over the black sweatshirt with the fuzzy killer whale ironed on it and you have a full basket of other things, then they will follow suit with a plastic ruler with a lenticular Manatee. It is simple: if you feel you need it all, then you should just get it all for your kids.

SET LIMITS
I firmly believe that gift shop purchases are fine within moderation. My wife and I typically allow our kids to each pick out 1 item. This item is limited in quantity and in price. Do not be afraid to teach your kids about prices. If they are old enough to “want”, they are old enough to understand price. I frequently see parents just buy whatever their kids want. That won’t teach your kids anything about making decisions.

DON’T GET PLAYED
Your kids may throw a fit or a tantrum of biblical proportions. I believe there are times when giving in to your kids to shut them up is appropriate. Gift Shops are not one of those times. Don’t let them manipulate you. You just shelled out to give them a memorable experience. You owe them nothing if they don’t deserve it. Stay strong.

STEER THEIR PICKS
If you are going to spend money, you should try to steer them into a good direction. My wife and I are typically fond of books that are created specifically for the museum or zoo. Other good, educational options include: coloring books, puzzles, and games.

With some careful planning and strong will, you can successfully journey through a gift shop with minimal casualties. The important thing your kids take away from the day should be the day, not the gift. Good luck noodads.

Related Vacation Articles from the Noodad Archive:
5 Ways to Improve a Trip to the Zoo

The Dreaded Kids’ Menu: Eating Healthy on Vacation
Surviving the Jetlag Nightmare