When we think of a date night, we think of mom and dad. But let’s include the little ones in some of that fun. I know, I know, it may be daunting to take a tiny human out to dinner no matter the stage in life. I have been out to dinner with our little man since he was 6 weeks old (I think it may have been earlier but honestly my memory of those early days is already starting to fade).
Just know it was early enough for the ladies at my local Chinese restaurant to tell me, “It’s too early.” Ha! So, to be frank, it’s ok to not want to try this. But here are some great tips!
Practice/Simulate
Before you head out on your meal adventure (yes this is an adventure), pretend at home. Children love pretend. Print out some homemade menus or save some from your previous take-out. Let’s be real they can’t read, so most likely they will not know the difference. Have fun with it, have them order a meal from mom or dad. Maybe a babysitter or grandparent will play along at the end of their day.
Will You Fail? Let’s Prepare
If your child is able to understand, sit them down and explain to them what will happen or keep repeating what the turn of events will be. If your child is non-verbal or they are not developmentally there, sit with them for breakfast or dinner. We often feed our kids and don’t take the time out to sit and enjoy a meal with them, so when you do sit down it’s very foreign and they are lost, simply put.
The Right Time
If you have a potty trained child, have them potty before you leave, this way you are not bothering them every 15 minutes asking if they need to go. Diapers – change before you leave or in the car if you need to. Plan your meal around your child’s mealtime; remember the right time, not when they are starving. Also a quick tip is find out when the slow time for the restaurant is.
Is This Familiar?
Choose a place where appetizers don’t take forever. Maybe it’s a favorite and they know you. The servers may be willing to help you if they get the heads up that the whole family will be there. If they expect kids, they will know where to seat you or have those coloring pads ready. Also pick a place that has bread sticks, olives or something to nibble on at the table (it’s ok if your kids play with food, they are kids). If you have food aversions point that out upon entering or call ahead. Again stick to what you know, pick from your favorite places to eat out.
Idle Hands
If you are dining out for the first time or your child has a short attention span, this may be a one course meal. Pick a favorite toy to take with you, have a surprise gift, maybe a coloring book or if your child likes stickers. (I’ll admit to using the iPad while dining – my son eats whatever I feed him when he is engaged in a program he really likes – and I mean “whatever”). I’m sure you can think of something as a distraction. Dining out is mostly for parents, the older they get they will start to appreciate it.
What Did I Do?
Some times things take a turn for the worse. If it’s a fail and baby is crying, don’t panic, everyone knows babies cry. Maybe a server or owner who is a mom will come over and do some silly faces or the patrons next to you will help you out. When the staff brings you your food, and it all goes south you can ask for to-go bags. They will understand. And pay your bill while eating (one less thing to worry about in case it takes a turn for the worse).
Cues
Every child has a clue/tell that they give parents as a heads up. Now if you have the perfect dining experience first time out, do not, I repeat do not push your luck. Quit while you are ahead so your child will associate being out with a positive experience. (If its a sleeping infant, take full advantage of the moments before they are a squirming ball of cuteness).
Don’t Demand Just Ask
Most if not all restaurants are equipped to accommodate children. If you forget something don’t be afraid or embarrassed to ask. Sippy cup, plastic (not a fan) or chopstick helpers (yes this is a thing even adults can use them) can often be provided.
In the End
Pat yourself on the back, you made it. If it went well then YES! When do we do this again? If your child understands commend them on a job well done. Should it be the worst thing you ever did, try again, next time with less weight on your shoulders. Relax!
I am always dining out, sometimes it goes really smoothly, other times I’ve had to go to the car and do a full outfit change and start over. But guess what, we survive. Practice makes perfect and I can’t wait for you to take your little one to your favorite spot. Order them a babycinno because kids can enjoy a cafe too.
Think of dining out like the adventure it is. Would you go on an airplane unprepared? I think not, only this time instead of sticking it out for hours you can pack up and head home.
