How to Eat Out With a Toddler

Eating out with a toddler can be a good experience or it can be an awful chore depending on the level of preparedness of the parents. Parents must come to the dinner table armed with the information and tools they need to make eating out with their toddler enjoyable for everyone.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Bag or box of small toys
• Crayons and paper

1. Time it right. Many parents attempt to go out to eat with their toddler at his normal nap time or bedtime, then wonder why their child does not behave. If your toddler is well rested, eating out will be a much more enjoyable experience for everyone.
2. Choose a kid friendly restaurant. Kid friendly does not have to mean fast food. Many popular chain restaurants will fit this bill nicely.
3. Bring along a bag of tricks. A bag of small toys, crayons and paper can entertain your toddler while you wait for your food and after she finishes eating.
4. Make reservations. Many toddlers will get restless if they must wait to be seated for any length of time. Be smart and make reservations to ensure an enjoyable restaurant meal with your toddler
5. Don't expect too much. If you expect your toddler to be a perfect angel every time you go out to eat, you are setting yourself up for failure. The best parents have carried a screaming toddler from a restaurant. Get your food packed in a carry-out box, and try again at a later date.

Tips & Warnings

• If your child is hungry, give her a cracker or bread stick while you wait.
• If you know your meal will take hours, leave your toddler at home with a sitter. Everyone will be happier.