45 Surprising Tips For Eating Out With Young Kids

This post may contain affiliate links. Full privacy policy and disclosure here.

✨Want A FREE Parenting Class – Led By A Pro? Click Here

Are you a parent who dreads taking your young kids out to eat? Do you worry about your kids misbehaving, causing a scene, or making a mess?

Eating out with kids can be a daunting experience, but it doesn’t have to be! With a little bit of planning and some helpful tips, dining out with your young ones can be a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

In this post, I’ve compiled 45 tips to help you navigate eating out with young kids. From preparation to safety tips and dealing with mishaps, we’ve got you covered.

So, whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to grab a quick bite to eat, read on to discover some great tips to make dining out with your young ones a breeze.

Preparation is key

When it comes to dining out with young kids, preparation is key. Taking a few extra minutes to plan ahead can make all the difference in ensuring a stress-free dining experience.

One important step is to make a reservation in advance to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours. Additionally, packing snacks and toys to keep the kids entertained during the meal can be a lifesaver.

It’s also a good idea to have a plan for bathroom breaks and to consider the restaurant’s menu options beforehand to ensure there are suitable choices for everyone in the family.

By being prepared, you can set yourself up for a much smoother and enjoyable dining experience.

45 Tips For Eating Out With Young Kids

1. Make a reservation in advance to avoid long wait times.
2. Pack snacks and toys to keep the kids entertained during the meal.
3. Have a plan for bathroom breaks.
4. Consider the restaurant’s menu options beforehand to ensure there are suitable choices for everyone.
5. Request a high chair or booster seat for younger kids.
6. Opt for a booth or corner table for added privacy.
7. Choose outdoor seating if available to give kids more room to move around.
8. Sit away from busy areas like the kitchen or restroom.
9. Set expectations beforehand and discuss behavior with your kids.
10. Bring distractions like coloring books or electronic devices.
11. Play games like I Spy or Simon Says to keep kids engaged.
12. Reward good behavior with praise or small treats.
13. Choose familiar and simple dishes to avoid overwhelming kids.
14. Ask the server for recommendations if you’re unsure what to order.
15. Share dishes family-style to encourage kids to try new things.
16. Order appetizers or bread to keep kids occupied while waiting for their food.
17. Be aware of potential allergens and ask the server for ingredient information if needed.
18. Cut up food into small pieces to prevent choking hazards.
19. Teach kids to ask before touching anything hot, like plates or cups.
20. Keep sharp utensils out of reach.
21. Have a backup plan in case of spills or messes.
22. Ask for extra napkins or towels in case of spills or messes.
23. Bring a change of clothes for younger kids in case of spills or accidents.
24. Be prepared to clean up after yourself and your kids.
25. Don’t be too hard on yourself or your kids if mishaps happen.
26. Choose restaurants with kid-friendly menus or activities like coloring pages.
27. Take advantage of kids eat free nights or other specials for families.
28. Avoid busy or crowded times if possible to minimize stress.
29. Pack hand sanitizer or disinfectant wipes to clean surfaces and utensils.
30. Order drinks with lids to prevent spills.
31. Use a straw to prevent spills and make drinking easier for younger kids.
32. Bring reusable straws or utensils if needed.
33. Check if the restaurant has a play area or kids’ corner to keep kids entertained.
34. Choose restaurants with outdoor play areas or parks nearby.
35. Take breaks between courses to allow kids to stretch or play.
36. Let kids choose their own dishes or toppings to give them a sense of control.
37. Choose restaurants with quick service or takeout options for times when kids are extra hungry or fussy.
38. Pack a small first aid kit for minor cuts or scrapes.
39. Choose restaurants with quieter or softer music to avoid overstimulating kids.
40. Allow kids to interact with the server or chef to make the experience more fun and engaging.
41. Bring headphones or earplugs for kids who are sensitive to noise.
42. Choose restaurants with ample parking or easy access for strollers or car seats.
43. Ask for a to-go box for leftovers or extra food to prevent waste.
44. Offer to split a dish with your child if they aren’t able to finish their meal.
45. Tip generously if the server was especially accommodating or patient with your family.

By following these tips, dining out with kids can be a fun and enjoyable experience for the whole family.

Managing behavior at the restaurant

Managing behavior is a crucial aspect of dining out with young kids. Even the most well-behaved children can become restless or mischievous when in a new and exciting environment. Here are some tips for managing behavior while dining out with young kids:

1. Set expectations beforehand and discuss behavior with your kids.
2. Praise good behavior and redirect negative behavior in a calm and positive manner.
3. Avoid using threats or harsh punishments.
4. Use positive reinforcement like small treats or stickers to encourage good behavior.
5. Take breaks between courses to allow kids to stretch or play.
6. Use distractions like coloring books or electronic devices to divert kids’ attention from misbehavior.
7. Play games like I Spy or Simon Says to keep kids engaged and occupied.
8. Acknowledge your child’s feelings and try to address any underlying issues that may be causing negative behavior.
9. Avoid overstimulating environments or restaurants that may be too loud or busy for your child.
10. Consider bringing a trusted family member or friend to assist with managing behavior and keeping kids occupied.

Remember, it’s important to be patient and understanding with your child’s behavior while dining out. With a little bit of effort and understanding, you can create a positive and enjoyable dining experience for the whole family.

Safety first

Making sure your kids stay safe when dining out is super important. To create a safe environment, you’ll want to find a restaurant that’s clean and secure.

Be on the lookout for things like sharp edges, wobbly tables, and exposed wires.

Keep your little ones securely seated in high chairs or booster seats and make sure they can’t reach any sharp utensils.

Hot plates and drinks can be dangerous too, so be extra careful around those.

And don’t forget to pack a first aid kit just in case. Hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes can also come in handy for cleaning surfaces and utensils.

If you can, choose a restaurant with outdoor seating or a play area to give your kids more space to move around.

And it’s always a good idea to double-check for potential allergens and ask the server if you’re unsure.

Oh, and using a straw can help prevent spills and make it easier for younger kids to drink.

With these simple precautions, you and your family can enjoy a worry-free dining experience.

Love this post? Pin it!

More Like This

• Snacks Ideas For Kids Who Snack All Day
• 10 Surprisingly Simple Ways To Thrive As A Stay At Home Mom
• 4 Important Steps To Freedom From Mom Guilt