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AIBU?

Share your dilemmas and get honest opinions from other Mumsnetters.

Original poster

To think it’s okay to take the kids b&m

137 replies

Star1402 · 31/12/2020 12:32

Don’t like shopping myself or taking my kids shopping at the best of times so don’t really like taking them even more so now with covid.

Really need a few essentials. Bread, milk etc. This morning I came on my first period in 4 years and haven’t got any supplies (sorry tmi). Really can’t be assed with a supermarket, partner is at work until tonight, our village shop only takes cash and I have no cash. Not sure what’s open locally tomorrow.

Aibu to take the kids b&m? We’ve just gone into tier 3. Worried that’ll be frowned upon if I take dc in? All I’ve seen is people moaning that children and families are in shops etc.

They are pretty good really. Too young for masks but sanitise regularly and know how to social distance.

Can you tell I’ve barely been out during the pandemic ^^ and tend to get everything delivered!

OP posts:
Thehop · 31/12/2020 12:33

In this instance YANBU at all.

Backbee · 31/12/2020 12:34

Yes you can, you need to go out to get stuff you need and can't leave the children alone.

PinkSpring · 31/12/2020 12:35

It's fine - around here most people are taking their kids into shops still and we are Tier 4.

WhyHelloJiiilll · 31/12/2020 12:35

Of course YANBU. If you haven't anyone that could pop and grab bits for you then you have no choice but to take the kids with you.

Soubriquet · 31/12/2020 12:35

Just go.
Ignore if anyone gives you looks

Kids can’t be left alone if young now can they and you have to go.

Indecentobsession · 31/12/2020 12:36

Depends how many kids and the ages. Age limit on masks is 11, I'd be happy to leave a 10 yo in the car for eg while I nipped in

GetOffYourHighHorse · 31/12/2020 12:36

If you need sanitary protection then of course go. It's families of 4 browsing leisurely, cluttering up aisles that annoy me but if there's only one adult then yes you need to take them with you.

YouCanWorkItOut · 31/12/2020 12:36

Of course.

I was a bit wary in March/April but now take the kids wherever I need to take them.

GlummyMcGlummerson · 31/12/2020 12:37

Of course it's ok.

Then again I think it's ok if you just need batteries too 🤷‍♀️ I don't get the fear/hysterics about going into shops as long as you socially distance and wear a mask if you can

Tenyearsgone · 31/12/2020 12:37

Of course you can. Get yourself and the kids some nice treats for tonight and have a wander down the booze aisle.

Aroundtheworldin80moves · 31/12/2020 12:38

Taking the kids for a mooch around as you are bored... Unreasonable
Taking kids with you for essentials as you are the only adult in the house... Reasonable

Givemeabreak88 · 31/12/2020 12:39

Yes you can, I’ve taken my 4 kids with me since the beginning (single parent so choice) never had a bad look or comment. We are tier 4

Givemeabreak88 · 31/12/2020 12:40

No choice*

Original poster
Star1402 · 31/12/2020 12:40

Usually I’d wait until partner is home but he’s on a long shift and shorter opening hours in shops here locally today!

They are 10&5!

OP posts:
MistletoeandGin · 31/12/2020 12:41

I’ve just taken my three young children to the supermarket because a) I needed food and b) they’re too young to be left at home.
I genuinely couldn’t give a fuck if anyone had an issue with that.

Butterymuffin · 31/12/2020 12:43

How many kids and how old? Would they be able to stay in the car while you nipped into a shop?

If you're stuck for essentials you're stuck, but I think you should minimise everything as far as possible. I don't agree with the 'have a wander down the booze aisle' comment as if it's a jolly day out. Get in, get what what you need (or can grab quickly without fuss) and get out.

TitInATrance · 31/12/2020 12:43

Leave them in the car, if you have one. Otherwise fine in an emergency bu don’t wander about and keep together.

Original poster
Star1402 · 31/12/2020 12:43

@MistletoeandGin good for you. I really cannot be assed with the supermarket today 🤣 hoping b&m will be quieter! Knowing my luck it’ll be heaving!

OP posts:
Indecentobsession · 31/12/2020 12:43

In that case I'd leave the 10 yo in the car and take 5 yo with me. But at the end of the day do what you have to do in the quickest time

Original poster
Star1402 · 31/12/2020 12:44

I cannot leave them in the car as my oldest has additional needs and cannot be left unattended. He’s pretty well behaved in shops luckily!

OP posts:
polkadotpixie · 31/12/2020 12:44

If you're tier 3 then non essential shops are open as normal surely? I wouldn't give it a second thought tbh

Butterymuffin · 31/12/2020 12:44

Don't forget all this is for your protection as well as other people's. We know kids can pick up this new strain of the virus.

Fizbosshoes · 31/12/2020 12:45

I think I might whatsapp a few friends first to see if anyone was already planning to be out and could possibly get a couple of things for me. (and then disclose what I needed if/when anyone said yes) but obviously depends on your situation and whether you have friends you would feel ok to do this.
If your best option is taking your kids to quickly get some essentials then it can't be helped. I presume they are too young to be left in the car or wait outside the shop? (when I went in the bank earlier this year I wasn't allowed to take my kids in - they were 10 and 13, so fine to leave outside but I wasn't sure what the banks policy would be for younger children)

Whatwouldscullydo · 31/12/2020 12:45

Just go. Its no one else's business you don't need to justify yourself to anyone. Go get your bread and tampons !

Fresh air and a walk might help you feel a bit better too Smile

GetOffYourHighHorse · 31/12/2020 12:46

'I cannot leave them in the car as my oldest has additional needs and cannot be left unattended'

Well of course yanbu. I'm surprised you didn't mention he has additional needs in your op. Get your essentials!