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How to Feed Kids in Restaurants

When you're traveling with little kids, eating in restaurants can be trying for the children and parents too. Here's some tips. 

Difficulty Level: Varies      Time Required: Ongoing for about 9 years


Here's How:
  1. Choose family-style restaurants whenever possible.
  2. Even better: find places with ballrooms.
  3. Schedule meals before  the kids are starving. (Service might be slow!)
  4. With babies and toddlers, as soon as you sit down, move all glasses, salt shakers, etc., out of reach. 
  5. Don't forget the baby bottle.
  6. In sit-down restaurants, order some instant munchies-- like taco chips, or focaccio bread--  while everyone discusses what the main course will be.
  7. If appropriate to the restaurant, bring along small toys, picture books, comic books, etc., to pass the time until the food arrives.
  8. Bring tupperware or other food storage containers, to keep half-eaten meals for later.  
  9. Small kids are messy eaters; tip accordingly!
Tips:
  1. You can reduce your dependency on restaurants by renting a condo or suite with kitchenette; eating "picnics" with take-out food from a restaurant or deli; or preparing instant soups in your hotel/motel room if a kettle is available.
  2. Always bring plenty of snacks on outings: you'll save both money and time by reducing restaurant visits.
  3. Always carry baby-wipes in your purse, to clean up dribbles down shirt-fronts, etc.

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