Raising Kids Who Return Shopping Carts

You’re reading Modern Motherhood Musings, a weekly newsletter written from one mom to another. Each week I share an honest reflection on motherhood and a collection of things bringing me joy. Some links in this newsletter are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support!

As I was leaving Target the other day, it started to rain just as I finished unloading my cart. Everything in me wanted to push it aside, jump in my car, and drive away. But then I thought about my kids—the example I want to set for them.

Lately, if the world has felt heavy, you might find yourself wondering if small actions actually make a difference. As parents, we have the unique privilege of shaping the future through the values we instill in our kids.

Returning the cart is one of those everyday choices that shows our children our actions matter. That even when no one is watching, we have the power to make things just a little easier for someone else.

These moments—big and small—teach our kids that we shape the world around us. That it’s not just about us, but about noticing others, stepping up, and choosing empathy, even when it’s inconvenient.

It’s why we remind them to move their backpack off an empty chair so someone else can sit. To say thank you to the mail carrier. To hold the door open. To check on neighbors. To embrace and celebrate people whose experiences differ from their own.

Because the world isn’t just happening to us—we’re part of it. And the way we show up in small moments creates ripples that extend far beyond ourselves.

So yes, it’s just a shopping cart. But it’s also a reminder:

We take care of each other.
We look out for the next person.
We return the cart.

Because small things add up. And those ripples? They turn into waves.

🍲 If it’s still cold where you live, and you’re craving soup, this Creamy Tortellini Soup is just what you need. It cooks in 30 minutes, and is a kid favorite too!

🎵 My Kids have been loving the Disney Songs and Story playlists on Spotify like this Little Mermaid one or The Lion King.

⏲️ If you’re a serious procrastinator like me, then you’ll love this little rotating productivity timer. There’s something about having a countdown that makes me focus!

In 2025, I want to help you feel more confident using AI to make your daily life easier. From meal planning ideas to quick bedtime stories, these simple tips will save you time and help provide solutions to common parenting challenges.

Copy the prompt below and paste it into your favorite AI tool (like ChatGPT). Make sure to tweak and adjust it to fit your needs.

Parenting Challenge: Planning a Kid’s Birthday Party

Prompt: I’m planning a fire truck-themed birthday party for my 4-year-old. I need simple but fun ideas for decorations, food, activities, and a schedule that keeps kids engaged. The party is two hours long, and I’d like to keep it budget-friendly. Please include easy DIY ideas and links to any great resources.

There are a lot of new readers and I’d love to get to know you. If you’re up fort it, please reply and say hello! Let me know a little bit about yourself.

Happy Friday, Friends! I hope you all have a great weekend!

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