As a parent with young children, getting out of the house to enjoy an evening on the town can be difficult. This is especially true when going to eat at a restaurant, because you may be worried that they are going to make a scene. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to help ensure your children behave correctly while dining out.

How to Ensure Your Children Behave in Restaurants

1. Practice at Home

Before attempting a meal in public, teach them how to behave properly while enjoying a meal in your house. Practice the basic table manners like chewing with their mouth shut, putting the napkin in their lap, and how to eat without making a mess. This helps them master the necessary skills for an effective dining-out experience.

2. Set Expectations

Knowing what to expect before dining out avoids any surprises that could cause your children to act up. Tell them about the restaurant’s environment, what type of food and drink options they can expect, and how long the experience will be before going out so they fully understand how they are expected to behave.

3. Choose the Right Eatery

Not every location is fit for young children, so it’s crucial to find one that is family friendly. This eases the pressure for your children and yourself when compared to eating at a higher-end option where any misbehaviors are more noticeable. It’s also helpful because the staff at family-friendly choices are better trained to work with young children, and the menu often has options designed specifically for younger customers.

4. Bring Distractions

These will come in handy if your children finish eating before you and make it to where you don’t have to rush your visit to accommodate them. Just be sure to stick to things that won’t cause too much of a distraction for other customers. A book, crayons, or headphones and a tablet with a movie will keep them calm and focused while you continue to enjoy your meal.

 

If you’re ready to take your children out for a meal, you can’t go wrong with family-friendly restaurants like The Oyster Bar in St. Petersburg, FL. For over 20 years, they’ve been offering delicious brunch, lunch, and dinner options along with an inviting atmosphere and friendly staff. They have an excellent selection of fresh seafood and pasta options that are sure to please everyone in the family. Make a reservation by calling (727) 897-9728, or browse their menu online.