Find times to shop when there are fewer distractions and/or stores/restaurants with soft lighting, soft music, low noise, and fewer people and distractions. You may want to see if your child does better with sun glasses. I use cocoon sunglasses for a very different reason, but while they may not be the most flattering, they are functional and there are some styles more flattering than others. They provide better buffering for peripheral distractions. You may also want to try ear muffs or ear plugs to reduce noise or ear plugs with a calming music. See what works best. Sometimes a hoodie can also be helpful to reduce distractions. You may want to try using a weighted vest while shopping.
Don't try everything at once. Try one thing on an easy trip, then try another, then add or mix strategies. See what works for you and your child.
Some types of lighting and noises can be especially difficult for people with Autism or other sensory difficulties.
Your own level of stress or calm can also have a huge impact on your child. Use good relaxation techniques for yourself. You may want to try just 10 minutes a day of yoga and perhaps do this before and after a shopping trip.
Make sure, to the extent possible that both you and your child have had a good nights sleep and have daily food security. This means, all the necessary nutrients and no crap.
Use systematic desensitization during shopping. Try something short and easy at first. Over time build up to more difficult situations but avoiding the most difficult and maintain the strategies, such as those listed above, that help.
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