Last updated on December 2nd, 2023 at 11:40 pm
Dining out with kids can occasionally be a hassle, especially with twins. We’ve compiled some helpful tips to make the experience a little better for everyone involved.
1. Location Location Location
It’s always a good idea to go to kid-friendly restaurants, where there’s food you know they’ll like (chicken fingers seeming to be a perennial favorite in almost every household), crayons provided for drawing all over the placemats, and maybe some bread to take the edge off your hungry little dudes.
2. Pack a Snack
Sometimes what your tots want can not always be found on the menu. If you have a picky eater a quick sandwich from home (served on the restaurant plate) might hit the spot. Perhaps you can even bring an “appetizer” of snacks that you know the kids will enjoy.
3. Make It Fun
It’s always a good idea to bring a little something extra, just in case the crayons and the word search on the back of the placemat aren’t doing it for your kids that night. Better too many toys on the table than having to leave with a squalling child under each arm without having eaten anything! Our family favorite are small toys like Safari Ltd’s TOOBS! They come in an easy to carry case to take with you wherever you go. I recently brought them out to eat with her daughter and some friends, and they were clearly fully occupied until their food came. They made zoos!
4. Set Some Rules Before You Leave the House
Before you get out the door tell your kids what you expect their behavior to be like. Maybe even play restaurant at home and see how your kids react. Sometimes if they can’t run around within a few minutes, their patience might run thin right along with yours. Let your kiddos know what they are getting into before you step out the door.
5. Be Considerate
If you see a meltdown on the horizon, try to head it off at the pass or perhaps take your little ones out for a breath of fresh air or a trip to the restroom. Removing yourself before it starts will prevent those iron bending stares from folks trying to enjoy a romantic night out. (see #1 and avoid date night spots)
6. Allow a Treat
If the meal goes well consider adding a dessert on to the meal. Maybe even a fancy drink. My kids love seltzer and cranberry juice with a slice of lime. They feel like they are getting a real treat and it makes going out to a restaurant a special event.
7. Check Please
Ask your server to bring the check once your food arrives. If you have to get out of there quickly, at least you won’t be waiting around for the bill. Even if you ended up adding things to the meal because the night is going well, they can always amend the check. It’s just nicer to have it right there waiting on you instead of you waiting on it.
8. Early Birds = Less Meltdowns + Savings
If you dine out before 4pm, many restaurants offer Early Bird Specials. This will save your family a few bucks. There is another hidden benefit. Often these restaurants will be on the less crowded side so you can let your hair down and have a bit less stress PLUS you won’t be nearing your kiddos bedtime and they will be in better moods.
9. Try Something New – Make a Wish
My grandmother always used to tell us that when we tried a new food for the first time we should make a wish. I’m starting to see what a smart cookie she was. Allowing us to make a wish outside of our birthday cake gave us motivation to try some new foods. Often, one bite and we were hooked. So take a page from my grandma’s book and start that as your own family tradition. She won’t mind.
10. Set the Mood
If you are stressed, your kids will be stressed. Take a chill pill and enjoy the experience with your family. Even if it’s just a quick trip to KFC, you can still enjoy the dining out experience. Teach your kids that napkins go on their lap and if available, your bread dish goes on your left side and your drink is on your right. Tip to help you remember: hold your hands in front of you, make your index finger touch the tip of your thumb, see the letters they are making? B stands for bread and D for drink! If you enjoy the night, the kids will too.
Want to make your next night out adventure a bit more fun? Grab some goodies for your kiddos. Fill out the form below and you are entered to win. Two lucky families will get a set of TOOBS for their very own! Let us know in the comment section which you want: there are so many options.
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