Taking kids out to dinner

[mabdoo]

To all of you with children...how old were your kids when you took them out to a restaurant? We want to take our 1 year old out but we are very afraid to because what if she throws a tantrum, etc. She is usually really well-behaved but you know what can happen. Should we start at someplace fast like an IHOP? We don't want to take her to a fancy place but we won't take her for fast food either. We also know that we can bring her own food. We just want her to start being out more. Any suggestions?

 

[My2girls]

We have taken our kids out since newborn. It was pretty easy back then, but can get a little frustrating now (mine are 4 and 6). The 6 y/o does great most of the time, but the 4 y/o just needs something to keep her occupied, coloring (most places are good about that) or attention from mom or dad!

I think it is important to start training them early to be quiet and not stand on the chairs and all that.

Mexican restuarants are good, b/c they serve chips and usually have so much to look at. I think most restuarants nowadays are pretty kid friendly. Do you have any Spaghetti Factories where you live? Those are great!

Good luck and have fun!

 

[MSJ]

I think that taking her to an IHOP or some other family friendly restaurant would be fine. Try it and see how she does. Bring a few small toys or activities to keep her occupied while you wait. If she throws a fit and can't be calmed, just have your food packed up and take it home and try again in a few months.

Let us know how it goes--

Maggie

 

[melanalyus]

We don't go out.

~Melanie~

Jadon born 11/23/05
Justin born 1/17/04
Jory born 4/9/94

 

[jaypea]

I'm with Melanie . I have a 3-year old boy, and occasionally will take him out. We only take him to places like Pizza Hut, though.

 

[melimcn]

Like everyone else is saying, I think it's just a matter of the environment you're bringing her into.

My SIL brought my niece to a fancy Brazilian steak house when she was about 3 months old. But if you've ever been to a Brazilian steak house, you know that the atmosphere in those restraurants is very loud and busy. So if the little one threw a tantrum, it would not be disrupting an entire room full of diners. In fact, those sitting farther across the room were unlikely to hear her crying at all.

Good luck!

 

[mabdoo]

Thanks for all the responses. I will let you know how it goes.