Heading out for dinner is an adventure that the entire family looks forward to. It’s a break from washing up and a chance for everyone to pick their favorites from the menu. Dining out is particularly beneficial for young ones as it introduces them to a variety of cuisines, helps them practice their manners, and provides a fun family bonding activity.
However, when dining at your usual spots, do you find the children’s menu limited, often leading to a table full of fried foods? Fortunately, guiding your kids towards healthier dining choices while still enjoying the restaurant experience is entirely achievable. Here are five handy suggestions:
1. Explore the Menu Beforehand
Most eateries now post their menus online. Take a moment to look these over before you go, ensuring there will be suitable options for everyone. If the children’s menu isn’t visible online, a quick phone call can confirm the restaurant’s accommodation for younger guests. While it might mean saving some of your favorite dining spots for when the kids are older, there are plenty of family-friendly options that everyone will enjoy.
2. Pack a Little Extra
The term “reinforcements” can mean various things when eating out with children. This could include bringing along some healthy snacks to curb pre-meal hunger, engaging toys or activities to keep them occupied, or even their own utensils for ease of eating. This preparation ensures a smoother dining experience for both your family and others in the restaurant.
3. Opt for Healthier Substitutions
Simple swaps can significantly improve the nutritional value of your child’s meal. Consider adding vegetables to their main dish, opting for grilled over fried proteins, choosing sides of fruits and vegetables, and preferring water or milk as their drink. These choices help balance their meal with essential nutrients.
4. Begin with the Kids’ Menu
Initially sticking to the kids’ menu can be advantageous due to its smaller portions and often lower prices. Many restaurants are now offering healthier choices for sides and beverages on these menus. As your child’s tastes evolve, introducing them to foods from the adult menu can expand their culinary preferences.
5. Encourage Moderation
If dining out is an occasional treat, it’s okay to let your children enjoy some less healthy options. The key is balance—ensuring that meals at home are rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Teaching them that no food is inherently bad, but rather some should be eaten more sparingly, helps promote a balanced diet.
Setting Your Child Up for Success
Beyond what to eat, dining out is an opportunity to teach your child about mealtime behavior and etiquette. Eating earlier can help avoid busy times, listening to their cues about fullness prevents overeating, and demonstrating respectful behavior towards staff and other diners sets a positive example for your child to follow.
Enjoying your meals, especially the healthier options, in their presence, might inspire them to do the same, making dining out a pleasant and beneficial experience for the whole family.
