Of course, Hy-Vee is known for having a "helpful smile in every aisle," but I never realized they had this fun little extra available to children.

That's right, apparently, the Utica Ridge Hy-Vee offers freebies for kids under age 12, including a free cookie, balloon, slice of cheese, and piece of fruit.

It's awesome that Hy-Vee recognizes grocery shopping with kids is no easy feat. Those perks certainly help keep kids happy, since we all know how often little ones like to snack. The free balloon should be hopefully enough to keep your toddler distracted while you stand in the checkout line.

I'm not sure if every Hy-Vee location offers to the freebies to kids, but I'm glad Utica Ridge is making such a big effort.

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