Photo by Jason Briscoe on Unsplash
Have you ever avoided going out to eat just because you have a toddler and there are so many challenges that can go along with that? I know I have definitely thought twice about it many times and have even chosen takeout over going out just because of the stress. As a working mom and a mom of picky eaters, I find myself eating out or getting take-out often.
Here is my secret to making it work… Plan ahead (as much as you can). It’s not always possible because sometimes plans change last minute but if you can, plan ahead.
Tips for eating out with a toddler
- Bring stuff to keep your toddler (and other children) busy. It could be small snacks or toys or both
- Get some disposable table toppers to make eating out a little more sanitary and interesting (some come with stickers)
- Use a toy strap with toys so your toddler doesn’t throw them
- Try to go at times when your toddler is not going to be tired and therefore, cranky
- It’s best to eat at restaurants where it won’t take an hour to get food or 2 hours to be done eating
- Try to eat at restaurants that have a little more noise so if your toddler gets fussy or starts banging on the table, it won’t be completely embarrassing
Product recommendations for eating out with a toddler
Here are some of the products that I recommend to make it easier to go out.
Snack options
Here are some great snacks that I recommend you stick in your diaper bag to keep your little one busy. To see what else you should pack in your diaper bag check out my post here.
In order to keep things interesting, I tend to have a stash of toys or activities and switch them out. If you just bring the same 2 toys every time, then your child will probably be bored. Finger puppets are another fun one and they won’t hurt anyone if thrown.
Let me know if you try any of these and if they work for you! Comment below.
I loved the disposable table toppers when my kids were little. I would stock up at Target.
I never had any issues eating out when my children were younger. These are great tips though for ones who do
Great tips! As exhasuting as eating out with a toddler can be, we try to go often because we want Olivia to learn the skills to eat out at a restaurant. I love the idea of getting toys that hook to the high chair!
It’s a great idea to keep trying. Eventually they will learn. Hopefully, some of those tips might help!
Hey Laura! I’m LaLa the Grandma. Just thought that was cool!
Very cool! Maybe I will have that name someday when I get grandkids!
Great tips and timing because I really needed to hear this. I am so embarrassed when my son throws a toy or his spoon. I am going to look into buying the toy straps you mentioned. Thanks so much!
Yes, anything that can help make mealtime less stressful. The toy straps are super cheap so I buy a bunch because I lose them sometimes.
I always ask the host to set us by other parents with kids, it doesn’t always work but the places we go they know us. I always pack a few extra crayons in my purse for them to color with and a toy car for our youngest.
Great idea!
Great tips for eating out with your toddler. I will be trying some when I go out with my toddler next!.
Great! Let me know how it goes!