Yes, it is possible to enjoy eating at a restaurant with young kids! They key is to practice the skills at home. Eating meals at a table is a learned skill. We need to give kids the opportunity to practice when there aren't the extra distractions in a restaurant. Here’s how!
- Eat meals at the table.
- Eat meals together. Practice having an adult eating with your child. Being a good role model speak volumes.
- If you leave the table you’re “all done.” It doesn’t teach kids how to sit and eat if you allow kids to take a bite, run off to play, come back to the table for a bite and repeat.
Practice these skills at home and your child will know how to behave at a restaurant. (Bringing along a toy and some crayons helps, too!)