There will be many occasions when you’ll take your child out to eat. Being preparing will make the experience more enjoyable.

• Try to find out beforehand what facilities will be available at the restaurant you choose: if you are booking a table, mention that you will be bringing small children, and find out whether there will be room for your child’s stroller, and whether a high chair can be provided if you need one
• Many children’s menus are very limited and offer just hamburgers, hot dogs, or fish sticks – all with fries. If you really don’t want your child to have these foods, ask whether you can order a small portion of  a suitable dish from the main menu, and whether you will be changed full price for it
• Most children will enjoy the experience of eating out, and you should involve your child fully, allowing him to choose his own meal and to give his own order to the waiter if he is not too shy
• Bring along your child’s booster seat if he normally uses one. If you think he will have difficulty drinking from a glass, you could also bring along his training cup
• Many restaurants positively encourage children, and will be happy to provide straws for drinks, bibs and high chairs for young babies, and even small gifts such as paper hats or pictures to color in