1. Sympathize with the
parent. Say something like,
"She sure is a bundle of
energy," or "My child
used to get upset just like
that."
2. Divert the angry attention
away from the child. Open up
a conversation with the adult.
Ask a question or directions,
anything to provide a
distraction and some time for
the parent's anger to subside.
3. Compliment or praise the
parent or child. Say something
positive. "What a big,
strong boy you have! How old is
he?" or "It's hard to
shop with a toddler. You have my
admiration for managing
it!"
4. Offer sympathy and help. Sometimes
a parent's anger is fueled by
embarrassment at the fuss the
child is making. "Children
sure can wear you out! Is there
anything I can do to help?"
"Taking kids out to eat is
hard! I'm sure everyone here is
remembering that and giving you
credit for your patience."
5. Alert the store manager if
you are concerned about the
child's safety. Ask someone with
authority over to the parent to
communicate that, "This is
a safe place for children. You
may not spank here."
6. Quietly stand guard if
the child is neglected and is in
jeopardy. For example, keep an
eye on a child left unattended
in a grocery cart or a toddler
at a street or parking lot
curbside.
DO NOT give dirty looks
or make snide remarks.
Disapproval or anger will only
increase the parent's anger and
make matters worse. If someone
else in a store or restaurant is
clearly disapproving, step in
and be an obvious ally to the
parent by offering a kind remark
or some help.
