Are you off the a family meal soon? You need to read our Parent’s Guide to Eating Out with Kids!
Ah, the allure of a restaurant meal – a break from cooking, a chance for conversation (ideally uninterrupted), and delicious food served on actual plates (not plastic ones smeared with questionable substances). But with kids in tow, that dream can quickly turn into a battlefield of spilled drinks, meltdowns over mac and cheese, and enough french fries scattered across the floor to feed a small nation. Fear not, fellow parents! Here’s your survival guide to conquering the culinary world with your little ones.
Choosing Your Battlefield Wisely
The key to a successful dining experience starts before you even step foot outside. Here’s what to consider:
Kid-Friendly Atmosphere
Look for restaurants with high chairs, booster seats, and a menu offering familiar options beyond chicken nuggets (though nuggets are a perfectly acceptable fallback plan). Play areas or outdoor seating can be lifesavers too.
Timing is Everything
Avoid peak meal times when restaurants are crowded and patience is thin. Opt for early dinners or lunches to minimise wait times and maximise good moods.
Pack Like a Scout
Bring a well-stocked changing bag with entertainment essentials like small toys, colouring books, or even a pre-downloaded movie on your tablet (use it sparingly!). Snacks are also crucial to avoid “hanger-induced” meltdowns.
Engaging Your Mini-Me’s
Once you’re seated, here are some tactics to keep your little troop entertained:
Let Them Help
Involve them in ordering by letting them choose from a pre-selected kid’s menu (bonus points if it has pictures!).
Colouring Crusade
Crayons and colouring pages are lifesavers. Many restaurants offer these, but bringing your own never hurts.
I Spy on the Go
Play a simple game of “I Spy” to keep them occupied while waiting for food.
Bathroom Breaks as Bonding Time
Turn bathroom trips into a mini-adventure. Let them “help” you wash your hands and practice their independence.
Taming the Tantrums
Even the best-laid plans can go awry. Here’s how to handle the inevitable meltdown:
Distraction is Key
Redirect their attention with a new toy, song, or a quick trip outside (if weather permits). Sometimes, a change of scenery is all it takes.
The Power of Empathy
Acknowledge their frustration, but be firm yet gentle. Offering a choice (e.g., “Do you want to sit here quietly or colour at the table?”) can sometimes help regain control.
Escape Route
If all else fails, don’t be afraid to take a strategic retreat. A quick walk outside or a visit to the restroom can give everyone a chance to regroup.
Things to remember when eating out with children
- Relax and Breathe: Kids pick up on your stress. Take a deep breath, smile, and remind yourself that this is a learning experience for everyone.
- Lower Your Expectations: Don’t expect a perfectly peaceful dining experience. Remember that even if your child isn’t a fussy eater, they may not like the taste of the food in the restaurant. Focus on creating positive memories and enjoying quality time with your family, even if it comes with a side of spilled juice.
- Celebrate Small Victories: Did your child manage to eat half their vegetables? Did they sit through the entire meal without a single tantrum? These are victories worth acknowledging!
Eating out with kids can be an adventure, and with these tips, you’ll be well on your way to conquering restaurants and creating lasting family memories (both hilarious and heartwarming) along the way. So grab your patience, pack your arsenal of distractions, and get ready to experience the joy (and occasional chaos) of dining out with your little ones! We hope that our parent’s guide to eating out with kids will help!
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