How to Take an Infant to a Restaurant

Take you infant to a restaurant with other new parents.

Taking an infant to a restaurant can be an intimidating experience. The loud noise and new environment can upset an infant, but it is necessary to introduce your child to environments beyond the four walls of your home. Taking your child out in public, including restaurants, at a young age can help them become more comfortable in noisy atmospheres. Staying home and not enjoying a night out accomplishes nothing more than making date night a thing of the past.

Things You'll Need

• Diaper bag
• Diapers
• Wipes
• Baby toys
• Changing pad or sanitizing wipes
• Bottle or baby food

Instructions

1. Call your restaurant and make a reservation prior to your arrival to ensure you get a table out of the way of the waitstaff. If you are placed in an area with heavy traffic, you risk your baby's high chair or carrier being tripped over or having hot food or drinks spilled on him.

2. Pack your diaper bag with plenty of diapers, wipes and toys. Include a fresh bottle or baby food in the diaper bag, depending on the age of your infant. Also, pack sanitizing wipes or a changing pad in case you have to change your baby at the restaurant.

3. Feed your infant most or all of his bottle or baby food after you arrive at your table. This makes it possible for you to eat after your food arrives because your baby will have a full stomach. If necessary, take turns feeding your baby with your significant other, especially if your food is delivered to your table quickly.

Tips & Warnings

• Some restaurants may ask you to leave if your baby begins crying loudly and interrupting the meals of other patrons.

References

• She Knows Parenting; 6 Tips For Taking Kids Out to Eat; Jen Klein; March 2009
• The Bump; Eating Out With Baby; Erin van Vuuren; May 2009