Dining out expands a well-behaved child’s worldview and makes it more enjoyable for the adults at the table, as well as others nearby.
Be Realistic
Age matters—there should be different expectations for a child at age 5 versus a 15-year-old teenager. A very young child may become bored, tired, cranky, or all three at once. For this reason, it may not be appropriate to bring a very young child to a “nice” restaurant, or even the neighborhood burger joint, out of consideration to fellow diners. Wait until they can complete a semi-formal family dinner, such as during the holidays, without incident.Smiling Faces
Just as in the home, children need to arrive at the restaurant table with clean hands, freshly combed or brushed hair, and clean, appropriate clothes. Dressing right is part of the overall learning experience. Firmly advise them that double-dipping from sauce ramekins or using their hands to grab bread from the breadbasket isn’t acceptable. This is also a good time to teach them that burping and boisterous behavior aren’t condoned.Say Please
Children need to be pleasant meal-sharers, passing the food around the table when asked, using the proper utensils to serve themselves if they’re able to do so and saying “please” and “thank you” to those who assist them if they can’t. They also need to know that being respectful and thanking servers isn’t optional. This is where it’s critical that you and all other adults at the table provide a good example.Help Them Order
Ordering from the menu is a big deal for kids, but they may need some helpful supervision at first. You’re not doing them any favors by allowing them to order whatever they want. For starters, they may not eat what they ordered, which is a waste of food and money. Or they could run amuck, ordering a Maine lobster or a $150 wagyu steak. Helping them choose wisely will boost their confidence.No Phones or Toys
Children need to respect the dining experience in any restaurant. Firmly enforce a “no phones or electronic toys at the table” rule for everyone, with no exceptions. Encourage the kids to politely interact with others at the table by being part of the conversation. Don’t allow them to sit there unhappily sulking or staring out the window. This is another opportunity for the adults to provide a good example.
