So you decided to actually step out of your house and eat at a restaurant. With your toddler. That s a very brave decision. As you pack your bags for an evening of good food and memories, do not forget the essentials. I do not mean the basics you have in your diaper bag. When planning to eat, you need to ensure that your child does not bring home any bacteria and germs. Here are a few things I carry in my restaurant bag to ensure that things are reasonably clean and hygienic.
My restaurant essentials for a toddler
Place mats: I am sure you would want your child to sit in a hi-chair at the restaurant, but remember that a lot of kids sit, touch, lick (probably) that chair too. It is always better to get a stick-on place mat (easily available online) that can go on the table part of the hi-chair. My hack for this is to carry cling film, with which I cover every inch of the high chair. I may sound like a neurotic mom, but better be safe than have a sick child.
Sanitiser: This goes without saying. If you are a mom, you probably have a dozen of the teeny-tiny bottles in your handbag and a dozen more in the diaper bag. Toddlers love to touch things (nothing wrong, it stimulates their senses) and then nibble their fingers. Keeping a sanitiser handy only makes sense.
Wet wipes: From cleaning surfaces, the TV, to removing makeup and wiping an especially grimy child, wet wipes have saved lives of several moms. I prefer wipes over sanitisers as I feel it is better to wipe your hands off dirt and grime instead of simply rubbing some sanitiser on them.
Ask for extra cutlery: Toddlers are only polishing their motor skills, and dropping the fork and spoon again and again is bound to happen. Do not pick up the same cutlery, wipe it and give it to your toddler. Ask the waiter for extra cutlery beforehand. Do not forget to give a good tip to the waiter.
Order a salad: Waiting for the food to come can be too taxing for your toddler. And you do not want a cranky 2-year-old who decides to throw a tantrum just as you are about to dive into your soup. Order a salad as it is quick and toddlers love munching on carrot or cucumber sticks. Even if she doesn t actually eat any of it, at least she ll be busy.
I hope these tricks help you enjoy a good meal. Do you have any tricks and tips too? Please share it in the comments below. Bon App tit.
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