Instead of dreading eating out with your toddler, let me show you how to put together mom’s survival kit for eating out with a toddler. These tools will help you enjoy family dinners again.
When I started using these simple tips my stress level went down when we had dinner out, and I know yours will too.
I’m the kinda girl that enjoys eating out. I mean, who doesn’t love the idea of having someone cook your meal for you and clean up?! Yes please!
Here’s the truth though, when you’re a mom of a toddler the thought of having a nice family dinner at a restaurant doesn’t even sound possible let alone fun. In fact, when I mention eating out with a toddler you might laugh at the idea, or it might make your stress level go up…I know it did for me.
Putting a plan in place for eating out with your toddler!
I’ll be the first to admit that there were plenty of times I told my husband I’d rather eat at home instead of chancing it at the restaurant.
I don’t want you to miss out like I did!
Once I put a plan in place – my mom’s survival kit for eating out with a toddler – we began having nice family dinners where I didn’t constantly feel stressed out. I even began to enjoy our time together.
I’m here to tell you that having an enjoyable family meal with a toddler is possible!
Mom’s Survival Kit For Eating Out With A Toddler
Everything in this survival kit is going to seem super simple…and it is…but each and every item will give you the success you needed to have an enjoyable meal when you visit a restaurants with your toddler intow.
Toddler Flatware
Have you seen the size of silverware at restaurants…it’s ginormous for a toddler to use. This toddler flatware is the perfect size!
Reusable Placemats
It’s inevitable that food is going to fall off of your toddler’s plate onto the table. When you have these placemats under the plate (they’re awesome because they have grippy bottoms that stay put) you won’t have to panic as much about table germs.
Miracle Cup
I love these cups because if they fall over (which, hello they will with a toddler) they won’t spill. (Yes, some restaurants have cups for kids with lids and a straw but even if those tip over on the table they’ll still make a mess.)
Disposable Bibs
Thanks to these disposable bibs, clean up is so easy! And if you don’t want to splurge on a pack of disposable bibs for eating out I recommend a great wipeable bib.
Baby Wipes
Even if it’s only a small package, baby wipes are a must! (You can also get a refillable wipes travel case.)
Snacks
Whether it’s a box of raisins, a bag of crackers or individual portions of your toddlers favorite snack, bring a little something you know your child will eat. Not only can a snack keep your toddler preoccupied while you’re waiting on your food but it’s also a great thing to keep on hand in case you want to order an appetizer that you know your child won’t eat.
Toys
It’s highly likely that your family will not only have to wait to be seated when you arrive at the restaurant but you’ll also have to wait for the food after you’ve ordered it. And while some restaurants have coloring sheets and crayons for your child some won’t. Set your child up for success by having a few toys in your survival kit for them to play with.
***Super Important*** Only let your child play with these toys when you’re eating out at restaurants. This keeps the toys “fresh” and “new” in the eyes of your toddler which will keep him preoccupied playing with these toys longer. I also recommend switching out the toys every month or two to mix things up for him.
Here are a few of my son’s favorites restaurant toys.
Check out more screen free activities for toddlers here.
Mom’s survival kit is a simple but powerful tool!
Like I said, this survival kit is super simple but it has also been a very powerful tool. I’m proof that you can out with your toddler with less stress.
I’d love to know how you keep stress to a minimum when eating out with your toddler. Please share in the comments below so the rest of us can glean from your wisdom!
If mom’s survival kit for eating out with a toddler was helpful, you might also like:
- Is your to-do list mounting? Learn how to get anything done with a toddler.
- Is it time to clean out? Learn how to declutter your kid’s toys without losing your sanity.
- If you’re constantly feeling drained, do one of these self-care tips for when you feel empty inside.
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