Going out to a restaurant instead of cooking can be a nice reward for parents after a long day at work. It can also provide several teachable moments for children. While it might not be something you can do every night, the following guide explains how to make the most of the occasions you do decide to celebrate.

What Your Kids Can Learn From Going to a Restaurant 

1. Manners

Children learn from watching others. When you go out to eat, they will pick up on how you act, as well as the behavior of the diners around you, and seek to mimic it. You can also gently remind them to say “please” and “thank you” when speaking to the servers and to use their indoor voices when talking to family members—perhaps with a special dessert as a reward for their patience. This will help them learn how to act in other public settings.

2. A Love of New Flavors

Many parents know the struggles of having a picky eater. When they go to a restaurant, they can choose items they are comfortable with, while you can indulge in something more flavorful or exotic than what can be prepared for the whole family at home. In addition to allowing everyone to have a satisfying meal, your children may be tempted by what their mommy or daddy is eating and accept a bite. In this way, they may develop their own palates beyond chicken fingers and pizza. Encourage this further by ordering an appetizer everyone can share.

3. The Joys of Quality Time 

Kids and teenagers who regularly eat dinner with their family tend to have better grades and less behavioral issues. In spite of these benefits, the habit is in decline due to families’ busy schedules and the increasing intrusion of technology into daily life. By going out to eat together, you cut out the distractions of the TV and the stress caused by cooking or the thought of doing dishes. Instead, you can focus on one another.

Western Grill Steak House in Andrews serves up the best hand-cut steaks, pork chops, poultry, and seafood in western Texas. Come to their restaurant for a delicious meal with family or order some food for take-out and enjoy each other’s company at home. Visit the website for a closer look at their varied menu or call (432) 217-0262 to place an order or make a reservation today.