It always seems like a good idea, “Let’s go out for dinner tonight!” While sometimes it’s a pleasant experience, sometimes it’s a catastrophe. If you’ve ever dined out with a toddler, you can probably appreciate these 12 stages of dining out with a tot:
Packing like you’ll be gone for a full day. Change of clothes, toys, sippy cup, tissues, hand wipes, and of course a snack in case the food takes too long to arrive.
The wait time is 5 minutes? We’ll go somewhere else. If there is ever a wait, it’s too long. You only have a short window before the crazy starts. It’s best go to another place altogether.
Waiting for the highchair to arrive. Is it just me or does the highchair take an eternity to come?
Removing all breakable and sharp objects out of reach. Why do they reach for the knives and salt shakers immediately?
Order the moment the waitress says hello. We arrive to most restaurants knowing what we want, so we can be in and out quickly. Feel pretty baller at the beginning.
Regret. Why is the food taking so long? We should have stayed home. The snacks come in handy.
Toys get thrown on the floor. It’s totally on purpose. Not a fun game.
Food is here! Spend about 5 minutes getting kid’s food in order. Cut it up, make sure it’s not too hot.
Child does NOT want the food you ordered. “But you said you wanted chicken fingers and french fries!”
Get in about 3 uninterrupted bites, but NO MORE. Let’s face it. It’s not a peaceful experience.
Someone has to pee. The moment you start to get comfy and enjoy the meal, someone has to pee NOW.
Check please! To-go boxes are a must. You can eat later once kiddos are asleep.
Make sure to check out Abby’s list of kid-friendly restaurants in Fairfield County!
Any tips for dining out with kids? Share them in the comments below!