A Parent's Guide to Dining Out with Little Ones

As a mom, I’ve learned that dining out with kids is a delicate balance between wanting to enjoy a meal and managing the unpredictable nature of little ones. Amidst the anxiety, there’s joy to be found—watching their faces light up when their food arrives or sharing giggles over silly conversations. It’s all part of the adventure, and I’ve realized that preparation acts as my superhero cape in motherhood. With a little prep and a sense of humor, I can focus on enjoying the moment rather than stressing about the “what ifs.” Ultimately, being prepared transforms dining out from a daunting challenge into a fun adventure, allowing me to savor those special family memories.

Knowing I have activities and essential supplies on hand helps me prevent potential meltdowns before they start. It’s not just about having the essentials, but also packing them in a way that keeps everything organized and within easy reach. That’s where the ToteSavvy comes in—it’s been a game-changer for us. With its perfectly designed compartments, packing for a quick outing is a breeze, even when we’re rushing out the door. From snacks and wipes to our Babynetic magnetic bibs, everything has its place, so I can grab exactly what we need without digging through a chaotic bag. Check out our family tips and must-haves for dining out: 

• Parent pro tip: As soon as you sit down, order your kids’ food—or better yet, ask for the bread basket—before the waiter even gets to the "sparkling or still" water question! Keeping the little ones happy with something to nibble on makes all the difference.

• Activities: Pack a few activities to keep your little ones entertained while you wait for your food. Some of our favorites include Melissa and Doug’s Water Wow for mess-free coloring, Floss and Rock’s fun memory games, and the doodle board tablet for endless creative play! To keep things fresh and engaging, mix in some new or different items that they don’t usually play with. This adds an element of excitement and helps pass the time more pleasantly! 

• Familiar favorites: You can’t always rely on restaurants to provide kid-friendly cups or utensils, so it’s a great idea to bring some familiar items from home to boost your child’s confidence during mealtime. Pack their favorite water bottle, utensils, and a bib to keep things tidy. 

• Minimize the mess: Dining out with little ones doesn’t have to be messy! Our go-to solution for staying neat on the go is the Babynetic magnetic bib. The magnetic closure makes it so easy to snap on even the squirmiest toddler, and it’s nearly impossible for them to pull off—no more food flying disasters! Plus, it can easily be wiped clean and put back into your ToteSavvy, keeping everything organized. Another lifesaver? Disposable placemats! Skip the breakable plates and let your little one enjoy their meal directly on the placemat. It’s an easy setup and even easier cleanup when you’re ready to toss it out.

• The Usual Suspects: Depending on your child's age, there are the usual items that go with you whenever you leave the house. Dining out is no different so pack up your wipes, diapers and a change of clothes to make sure you’re ready for any surprises that might arise during your meal.

So, to all the moms out there: remember that being prepared is your trusty sidekick when it comes to dining out. With a little planning and a lot of positivity, you can tackle any restaurant adventure with confidence. Let’s make those family meals a time to cherish, one bite at a time!

Use code TOTESAVVY for 20% off your Babynetic purchase! 

Author: Amanda Wiesemann