In many instances, you can easily take your kids along with you when you go on a mystery shop. Again, use your judgement.

For instance, if your shop is a restaurant, you'd be able to take your kids with you to a fast food or family restaurant, but it would be frowned upon on in a more formal setting. Likewise, if your shop is to the movies, a Disney matinee would be a good choice for the kids, but if it is a late night show to see if the staff are goofing off, you should definitely leave the kids at home.

If you are unsure about whether a shop is suitable for kids, always check with the shopping company first, or take along another adult with you who can take charge of the kids while you are dealing with the secret shop.

It is also important that your kids do not know you are on a mystery shop. A twelve year old likely would not say anything, but your toddler might blurt out something inappropriate about it being a mystery shop, and blow your cover.