Remember the good old times when you were once carefree and free-spirited and could go eating out anywhere without a care in the world? Fun times right? Fast-forward a few years later, you are now a parent, and your life has become more cautious, more careful and thought out because of your children. You no longer just walk in to an establishment freely. You are now more concerned about the kind of service, the ambiance offered and how kid-friendly a place is.
Eating out with your children especially the young ones can be a bit daunting. While parents envision a quiet and amazing time, sometimes, this is not usually the case. A child may end up fussy and uncontrollable and even create a not so pleasant scene for other patrons.
I once visited KFC with my two children, 6 years and 2 years, for lunch. It proved to be a difficult task the moment we walked in. My 2 year old has a healthy appetite and as we joined the queue to order, she had run to already sited tables and started picking food from their trays. Luckily, the person’s sited were older and looked like parents. They were amused and fed her.
After waiting for our order, we couldn’t find any space downstairs so we had to go up the stairs with both kids and food in my hand. I had to get help from one of the staff. At the sink, my daughter was more excited about playing with the water than washing her hands while other people waited for their turn. Suffice to say that she did not sit still one bit and ended up running around. I was clearly not prepared.
So what do parents need to know and do before they embark on this treacherous journey of going out? Here’s a few do’s and don’ts when eating out with especially young children;
DO’S
Inquire on the restaurant
It is always advisable to check out the restaurant you intend to visit before you do. You can peruse through their website or call and ask how they operate. Better yet, visit alone to ensure that it is child-friendly. For example, ensure their set up is conducive, offers high chairs for children, offers kids meals, has diaper changing areas, a play are etc.
Teach your child basic table manners and etiquette
Before heading out, it is always good to teach your child the values of patience and respect. Let them understand that they need to sit properly, chew with their mouths closed and not shout or scream. Lead by example also. Show them to be patient after ordering food, be polite to staff by saying thank you when food is served and say excuse me when they need to speak to someone.
Be prepared for any outcome
Always be ready for any outcome as children can be unpredictable. Always have a backup for whatever they might have. Anticipate any move. For example, carry a favorite toy for comfort if you feel your child might be overwhelmed. Have some drawing and coloring material when they start to get fussy and impatient or some snacks to chew on incase the food is delayed or they refuse to eat the food served.
Order simple food
Kids can be overwhelmed by the food served to them. It is always advisable to order food that is easy to eat, pick off the plate and chew. These foods should be delicious and healthy. Avoid, at all costs, hot and spicy foods. Ordering foods that are complex to hold and eat might ruin their experience.
Try out new foods
As kids grow older, they become more curious and inquisitive. This also applies to food. When out, encourage him, to try out new foods and grow his palette. This way, he is able to know what he likes and what he doesn’t. But before anything, always remember to check on your child’s allergies before anything.
Tip generously
After a great or not so great time at the restaurant, always remember to tip the attendant generously for their patience and kindness. It is always good to appreciate those who put up with our children even if their job calls them to.
DON’TS
While there are many things one should do when visiting a restaurant with their children, there are also things once should avoid. For example;
Don’t go during peak hours
It is always advisable to go earlier or later after peak hours as the children may be overwhelmed. A place that is too crowded and loud may cause discomfort as he is not used to the noise and crowd. Visit when the place is calmer for a more enjoyable experience.
Don’t go during your child’s nap time
Going to a restaurant during your child’s usual nap time can be fruitless as he will become very fussy or sleep through the whole visit which will beat its purpose.
Don’t go when your child is unwell
Being sick is terrible for any individual as they always want to rest, sleep and be comfortable. Eating out when your child is unwell will make them feel sluggish and tired. They might not enjoy the experience as they would rather be home.
Don’t go to high-end restaurants
Most high end restaurants are not child friendly as they want to create a quiet and low-key mood. It is therefore not a good idea to take children as it limits them and makes them feel uncomfortable. Also, high end restaurants have décor that is not kid-friendly e.g. the china, table cloths etc.
Don’t leave a mess
After eating out and the children have made a mess, always ensure that you do the minimal by cleaning up the space used. You can pick up table cloths and tissues used, collect food thrown on the table by the children etc. this shows care and consideration for the staff.
All in all, as we create beautiful and long lasting memories with our children, always ensure that they are well behaved, know what to expect and ready for the day out. Be considerate of other patrons before you go out if your children can be a handful and always be ready for any outcome.
How often do you eating out with kids? What is your experience like?