Baby shopping. Secrets of shopping with children: combining business with pleasure
I remember the first time I went out with my baby shopping mall: a tense dad looking around for escape routes, a bag with baby hygiene products and clothes, a backpack of toys, on their faces it is written: “We are armed with wet wipes and are very dangerous.”
Since then I have noticeably relaxed. Not in the sense of growing cheeks, but making a plan for myself to go out with a child and now I can easily manage without the help of my husband. He pretends to be worried, but I'm sure he jumps for joy every time the door closes behind us. At least when they go for a walk, I do this.
1. Go shopping on weekdays in the morning
Through trial and error, I found out: workday evenings or weekends are the worst times to go shopping. Excited flocks of buyers fluttering from one boutique to another, exhausted salespeople, stuffiness - and now you have succumbed to the rhythm and are in a hurry to no one knows where.
Another thing is a weekday morning - fortunately maternity leave allows. The assortment is the same, but the fuss is three times less. The child will not worry about the crowd, and will not have to maneuver between suddenly frozen customers.
2. Research the area in advance
If you are going to a new shopping center, go to the official website and find out about the availability of children's rooms, whether strollers are available for rent, and what cafes are available in the food court. Forewarned is forearmed.
If, for example, there is no room for feeding, a diaper or a large scarf will be useful to cover yourself or urgently change the baby's clothes.
3. Pack a backpack with the necessary things
Only this year I learned about special backpacks for mothers - they look ordinary, but inside there are divisions for jars, diapers and other things, on the outside there is an attached thermal pocket with compartments for bottles, but the main thing is that the bag opens both from the top and from the bottom, if you need to get it out something at the bottom. In general, the world will not be the same, and when my second son arrives, I know what I will buy first.
Our list of what you need for a trip to the store looks like this:
- changeable diapers - 4 pcs.
- change of clothes - pants, T-shirt, socks
- thick diaper - 1 pc.
- wet wipes - 1 pack
- waterproof diaper - 1 pc.
- drinking water - 1 bottle
- snack - peeled and chopped carrot sticks, apple
- children's medical insurance and a copy of the birth certificate (yes, I'm an anxious mother)
- toys
Of course, the list can be supplemented, but it has been enough for two and a half years already. Diapers were recently released - they are not relevant.
4. Choose toys
Everyone, therefore, without specifics: the toy should be easy to hold with one hand (rattle, small plastic or rubber figures or cars), easy to wash wet wipe in case of a fall and do not get on the nerves of others with loud squeaking. For the little ones, a few rattles or a hanging mobile will be enough; for the one-year-olds, they will need teethers and everything that can be examined and safely shoved into the mouth.
On the portal "I'm buying" you will find exciting and compact toys for your baby. Made from safe materials and bright in design, your child will love them and will entertain him while shopping.
About two-year-olds I will say this: let’s forget for a while that we are treating according to Komarovsky. If you want your child to sit up straight in the stroller, give him a cartoon or an educational game on your phone. Seriously, in our case, constant snacks and snacks save us from the collapse of the operation. Thanks to last child I love shops and sometimes I ask to go to a boutique.
5. Choose comfortable clothes
Shopping with children is always a challenge for parents. However, it is quite possible to turn this routine not just into shared pleasure, but also into a developmental activity for your child. Experts from the French clothing brand for the whole family KIABI have prepared several tips that will make every trip to the store an exciting adventure.
Instill taste from childhood
Sense of style and good taste can and should be vaccinated with early age. This is quite easy to do - when you try on clothes for yourself, take your child with you to the fitting room and in the process discuss why this sweater does not suit you, but the trousers fit well. Talk about your definition of good clothing and appearance.
From the age of five or six, a child is already able to evaluate for himself what color of dress, dessert in a cafe or toy he wants at the moment. The need to choose puts the baby in front of a very interesting task - to feel his desires and formulate them. You can ask him to choose one of two shirts or ask him what sweet he wants - chocolate or ice cream. Taking an interest in your child's opinion is a sure way to raise a confident adult.
After you return from shopping together, organize a “fashion show” at home with your baby. Allow your child to independently create images with new clothes, let him fantasize about where he is going to go in such an image - in kindergarten, for a walk or for a birthday.
Planning is the key to success
It’s no secret that before you go to the store for new clothes, you need to sort out your child’s closet, understand what’s missing, what’s time to throw out, and what he’s already outgrown. After this thorough check, try to make a shopping list with your baby - let him add two or three items to it especially for himself, whether new toy, a T-shirt with a bright print or sneakers. Thanks to this, in case of sudden desires, you can agree with a young shopaholic that you will buy this T-shirt or toy next time, since now it is not on your general list.
From the age of six or seven, a child can be given a small amount for pocket expenses. The baby can take money with him in a separate bright wallet and spend it on little things he likes. Of course, before giving your child money, it is worth explaining its value and that it can be saved. This method is good both in terms of controlling expenses for all sorts of “unnecessary” items from an adult’s point of view, as well as training in independent decision-making and learning how to handle money.
Discover the world
A fish swimming in an aquarium, a baker kneading bread, a barista brewing coffee, a cashier punching things - all this can be an opportunity not only to distract a child from boredom, shelves with sweets or toys, but also to talk about different professions and, of course, to see interesting, from the baby's point of view, objects and phenomena.
A “educational hour”, for example, in a supermarket, can give your child the necessary knowledge about how to choose good products, how farm tomatoes differ from imported ones, why it is better to buy yogurt without sugar and additives, and how to understand all this from the packaging. Knowledge about proper nutrition vaccinated unobtrusively, in the form of a game.
You can teach how to choose clothes in the same way. Tell your son or daughter about materials and fabrics, how colors are combined, how to understand that shoes are too small and jeans are too big. All this information is priceless and extremely important for the future health and comfort of your child!
We resolve conflicts
If you know that your beloved child categorically does not like to go shopping or in this particular store will throw a tantrum with crying and requests to buy something that you do not want to spend money on, it is better to leave him in the nursery game room. Another good option is for the baby to stay with dad to play on the playground in front of the store while mom calmly buys things. Some stores, such as KIABI, have a special playground and there is a waiting area in the store itself.
A child who categorically refuses to try on clothes and shoes is not a punishment, but a great chance to finally start using a wide range of online shopping opportunities. Some mothers who love online shopping even claim that online shopping is faster and much more profitable than traditional trips to shopping centers.
WE UPDATE THE WARDROBE FOR YOUNG GENTLEMEN AND LADIES. MILAN IS AN AMAZING PLACE FOR SHOPPING! HERE YOU CAN BUY YOURSELF THE PERFECT “DRAMATIC” DRESS IN THE STYLE OF MONICA BELLUCCI AND ALSO, succumb to the CHARM OF CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORES – AS WELL AS SPECIALLY CREATED FOR BUYING BRIGHT CHILDREN’S SUITS AND T-shirts SHIRT, SKIRT AND PANTS.
Corso Vittorio Emanuele – Galleria De Cristoforis 1, Milano
Once in Milan, you will probably want to bring your child not just a beautiful thing, but something unusual that is associated with Milanese fashion.
In Mariuccia, open since 1973, you will find all the fashionable children's clothing brands presented during Milan Fashion Week: Burberry Childrenswear, Fendi, Roberto Cavalli Junior, Moncler, Ralph Lauren, Simonetta and Monnalisa. In addition, the store is located two minutes from the Duomo Cathedral, the main attraction of Milan.
Opening hours: daily from 10:00 to 19:00, Sunday – closed, on Monday opening hours from 15:00 to 19:00.
Via Belfiore 15, Milano
In Italy they know how to wear shoes in a way that they don’t know how to wear anywhere else. All because good shoes here it “comes into fashion” among people not from the age of eighteen, after entering college, but from their very first steps. Monelli offers all sizes, from 16 to 40. The best-seller for girls is pink pumps, just like Masha’s from the cartoon “Masha and the Bear.” It’s not surprising, because this Russian cartoon is incredibly popular in Italy. And the most popular model for boys is a pair of Converse boots.
Opening hours: daily, except Monday and Sunday mornings.
Corso di Porta Romana 72, Milano
In Italy, weddings, first communions and birthdays are not just holidays, but important milestones. Of course, one elegant dress is not enough here. On wedding celebration girls are dressed in full skirt from organza, and the boys - in a three-piece suit. For the first communion, white clothes and gloves are chosen. You can buy all these “correct” outfits at the Carlababy store, which has been welcoming visitors for twenty years. In addition to unique children's clothing handcrafted by Italian designers and tailors, you will find a selection of famous brands such as Il Gufo, Ralph Lauren and Armani Junior.
Operating mode: daily from 9:30 to 14:00, from 15:30 to 19:15.
On Monday from 15:30 to 19:15. Sunday is a day off.
Le Mercerie dal 1987
Via San Vittore, 2 – Piazza S. Ambrogio, Milano
Are you saying that haute couture is dead? But no: the Le Mercerie boutique will argue with you, where clothes and service are consistent with the canons of classic “haute couture”, which was found only by fashionistas in the 80s. Luxurious elegant dresses, elegant suits, lace bibs, hand-embroidered sheets and blankets. And also millions satin ribbons– they decorate all the walls of the store from floor to ceiling. It’s incredibly beautiful and atmospheric, it’s hard to leave here without buying something.
Operating mode: daily from 10:00 to 19:00. Sunday, Monday – closed.
Matia's Baby Outlet
Via Eugenio Balzan, 3, Milano
There are many outlet stores near Milan, but all of them are intended for adults. Matia’s Baby is one of those few that are completely dedicated to children. Moreover, it is located in the very center of the city. A wide selection of clothes, ranging from things for school (hoodies, overalls, jeans) to strict and laconic skirts and trousers reminiscent of a school uniform. Brands include: Baby Dior, Ra Ra, Pinco Pallino, Dolce&Gabbana, Bikkembergs Kids, Miss Grant, Armani Junior, Moncler, Simonetta, Il Gufo, Fendi and Monnalisa. All items are sold at a 50–70% discount.
Operating mode: daily from 10:00 to 14:30, from 15:30 to 19:00.
On Monday from 10:00 to 14:30. Sunday is a day off.
When you decide to go shopping in online stores, remember that customs limits apply from abroad: per month, one recipient can import a parcel weighing up to 31 kg and worth up to 1,000 euros duty-free.
Europe
In some European stores, prices are indicated taking into account VAT (analogue of VAT), and if when selling abroad the seller does not deduct the tax himself, then you need to familiarize yourself with the return rules. The tax amount is reflected in the price structure.
1. Babyshop
A multi-brand store with a warehouse in Sweden, which has a Russian-language version. Very convenient for novice shopaholic parents: size tables and operating rules are in Russian, direct delivery to Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine and Belarus is available. Among the goods - everything and a little more. In addition to clothes and shoes, you can order strollers, toys, car seats and all kinds of baby care items. There are many sizes, you can wear both babies and teenagers.
One of best options to master online shopping in foreign stores, helps to understand prices, terms for receiving parcels and basic shopping rules.
2. Modekids
An Austrian store that ships directly to Russia. If an item is out of stock, you can leave a notification note: when the item becomes available, you will receive an email. You can also order discount alerts. The store offers children's clothing and shoes; there are not many items in the assortment that cost less than 20 euros, but the quality is high. Sales and discounts help you save money, and for orders over 150 euros, the parcel will be delivered at no additional cost. You can buy things for kids and schoolchildren that look like adults. For reserved and serious parents and children.
3. Sucre d'Orge
We are moving to a French store with goods for newborns and children up to eight years old. The main range is intended for children under two years of age. I am very, very pleased with the prices on sales. You can buy charming things in pastel colors, Stuffed Toys, pajamas and swimwear. Even the delivery cost (about 20 euros) will not spoil the impression.
4.TAO
Another French clothing store for children and teenagers under 14 years old. Orders over 100 euros will be delivered to Russia free of charge. A separate feature is the selection of products from different brands for specific bows. Moreover, the store does not show the most expensive items, but offers with discounts. Here you can find T-shirts for less than five euros, and in general the cost of things is pleasing to the eye and wallet.
One of the most convenient stores to navigate and view products. There is a loyalty program for regular customers.
5. Surfdome
A large selection of not only children's, but also adult clothing, goods for sports or for walking. The store is aimed specifically at families who prefer active image life: accessories, shoes and backpacks, skateboards, boards and other equipment are presented here. Prices are indicated in pounds, but when converted to rubles they look impressive. But if you want your child to become a star on the sports field from birth, then look for equipment here.
6. Vertbaudet
A French store that has grown to operate throughout Europe and has learned to send goods to all countries of the world using UPS courier service. Shows prices in rubles. In addition to clothes, there are also products for the children's bedroom, that is, bed linen, furniture and decorations. If you really need to receive your order quickly, order express delivery. The store sells products from one brand, stylish and very affordable.
7. TheToyShop
UK toy store with a huge selection. Delivery to Russia will cost £25 and may take up to a month. Pros: original toys, constant sales and everything else that is expected of a toy hypermarket. The range of prices corresponds to the status of a megamall, that is, there are products for any wallet.
8.Kidsroom
Another site for beginners to explore. There are no clothes here, but there are sections with strollers, food, toys and other goods for children. The cost of delivery from Germany is calculated when placing an order, but cannot be less than 27 euros. There is a Russified version of the site and technical support in Russian. A separate category of products is presented - “Made in Germany”.
9. Babyshop
Shop for strollers, car seats, carriers and other various products for children. The delivery cost depends on the weight of the goods, but cannot be less than 26 euros.
10. POMPdeLUX
The store, which began sales in Denmark and is gradually expanding, already operating in several countries. Delivery outside the European Union costs 20 euros. We offer items for children aged one to 12 years. Pleasant and calm things for every day. The price tag doesn’t scare you, but during sales it makes you happy. To see prices excluding tax, you need to complete a simple registration.
USA
Goods from the USA travel to Russia for quite a long time and are expensive. Although our list contains only those stores that work with international delivery, we advise you not to rush into placing an order, but to compare the cost of delivery with the services of intermediaries. The fact is that American stores often deliver orders over a certain amount free of charge throughout the country. And in the end, the work of an intermediary will cost you less than direct work to your address.
1. The Children's Place
In this American store you can view prices in rubles. It’s especially interesting, of course, to look at sales. The assortment can be described as basic: fairly simple and laconic items with a minimum of decoration. For newborns and younger schoolchildren, there are also larger sizes.
2. Carter's
Another store with delivery to Russia and prices displayed in rubles. The cost of delivery depends on the weight and quantity of goods; the store calculates it itself when placing an order and announces the final amount immediately. The store offers children's casual clothing for all occasions. Convenient, cute and not a pity. The size range for children up to eight years old allows you to buy toys and clothes.
3. Pottery Barn Kids
A sea of furniture and home textiles, bags and backpacks, storage systems and 100,500 little things without which life is not sweet. A bunch of good ideas for home and bedroom decoration. The site will calculate the exact shipping cost after you add items to your cart. The price depends on the total order amount.
4. Diapers
A chain of stores in the USA that sends goods by international delivery to Russia. It’s easier to tell what products are not in the store than to describe what is there. A multi-brand megamall where you can find everything from diapers to furniture. You can wander around the site all day, buying what you need and need, and not go through all the sections. Full shipping costs are calculated at time of purchase.
5.Kidorable
A store with a small assortment, but what a great one! Just imagine what your child will have rubber boots a real space marine. How much delivery will cost is not clear until you start placing your order. But the opportunity to try on dinosaur skin is worth the extra expense.
6. TinySoles
This store with an adorable octopus on its logo specializes in shoes. But in addition to the first shoes for children starting to walk, and running shoes for teenagers, you can buy clothes and accessories here: hats, mittens, scarves and much more.
7. HannaAndersson
A store with a very large selection of clothing and accessories for active children. Delivery costs start at $20 and depend on the total order amount. Goods for school are interesting, bright things - according to reviews - very good quality. There is a section for mothers.
8.BabyMallOnline
A cute store with items for little ones. Prices correspond to the age of children, that is, they are small. In addition to clothes, you can buy backpacks, bags, and accessories for caring for a newborn.
9. Zulily
Beautiful clothes for children and a little for their parents. Some of the store's features include carnival and holiday costumes, as well as swimsuits for girls who are seriously involved in rhythmic gymnastics.
10. WonderfulDress
Shop for beauty and holidays. Dresses for little princesses and suits for princes. This is where you need to buy clothes for your birthday and graduation. The assortment is easy to navigate; all outfits are located in thematic sections dedicated to any holiday.
Asia
Asian stores are distinguished by their scale. There are not so many highly specialized children's offers, but large online stores always have a section with children's clothing and things for babies.
1.AliExpress
The most popular Asian store among parents and not only. It’s convenient to start getting acquainted with shopping in Asia, because experienced users have already written hundreds of instructions and guides for working with the site, and any of them will tell you what to do and what to buy. It is better to use the English version of the site, as it is much clearer than the Russian one. It’s impossible to describe the assortment, just go to the website and you’ll understand why.
2. BuyinCoins
A huge store of Chinese goods has a Russian interface. The site, translated by diligent Chinese, is replete with aships, but the prices there are more than reasonable. Free delivery to Russia has recently stopped working, so the cost of shipping goods will be calculated for you individually. The children's products section includes clothing and shoes, as well as toys and accessories.
3.TinyDeal
Store in Hong Kong. Like most Asian popular stores, it is not limited to only children's goods, it sells everything under the sun. It’s funny, Russified and pleases with prices; you also need to be careful about the possible quality of the goods. It is almost impossible to select products by category, because the filters do not work very well, but even without that, it is extremely interesting to see what is offered to children.
4.Gmarket
Unstoppable shopping with greetings from Korea. Eat school uniform and costumes for holidays, toys and stationery, strollers and car seats, children's cosmetics and goods for pregnant women.
5. MooMi-DaeRi
Korea again. The prices in the store are higher than those that fans of shopping in Asia are used to, but the quality of the items is very good. There are two more significant advantages. First: sellers always pack parcels very well. Second: the store acts as an intermediary through which you can order goods in any online store in Korea.
As I promised you in Instagram, showing shopping lists for my children. I will soon be updating my wardrobe with them at the biggest sale in America.
You also have time to prepare and choose things to buy on the 4th of July at the best prices!
I do thorough children's shopping 1-2 times a year. Then I just buy additional items as needed.
I really love the Ralph Lauren brand, but I don’t buy clothes from this brand in Russia, because you know, the prices there and here are very different. And if it’s also during the sales period, then it’s just heaven and earth. Even the best selling ZARA cannot compare in price, much less in quality.
I buy through Shopfans, wherever I am at the moment. You know that now I’m just in the states. BUT! There is no way I will carry so much clothes with me - no suitcases or extra payments for excess weight will be enough. That's why I buy online and send to Russia. Just the other day I bought myself soooooooof of these cowboy TOGA shoes from Matchesfashion - you'll rock them. And I will only meet them in Moscow, now they are at the Shopfans warehouse.
My daughter is 6 years old, my son is 8.
Daniil and Milena
These are visualized shopping lists that have already been loaded into the cart on ralphlauren.com and are waiting for the 4th of July, so that before my eyes the total decreases in honor of the sale, and I promptly pay for everything and send it through Shopfans to Moscow :)
I will also buy Dana’s school uniform this year on RL.
I would like to note that at RL I dress Daniil from head to toe, and for Milena I often buy summer clothes there, special love - everyday dresses from natural materials!
You can collect the same capsule wardrobe for your child by analogy, focusing on his age, clothing needs and climate in the country of your residence.