No matter how bleak it seems, or how misbehaved your kids are, a bit of planning can make dining out managable and fun. Here's our tips on children eating out, and dealing with fussy eaters.

Distraction

The most useful of suggestions is to take methods of distraction. Colouring books, felt tip pens, crayons, books and quiet games – try travel games, as they are smaller and can be played peacefully, leaving you and your partner to chat between courses. If you forget, use your imagination. Use straws to make animals, and ask the waiter for a pen and some scrap paper.

A booster chair

If you have somewhere in mind, call in advance and book a booster chair for your younger kids. This will save you from having to improvise with the car seat!

Timing

Child friendly atmospheres are much easier to stumble across in the daytime, so a lunch rather than a dinner might be more agreeable.

Conditioning

The earlier on in life you introduce your children to eating out in restaurants the better. This way there is less chance of them getting overexcited.

Warning

Before you enter the restaurant, try telling your children exactly what kind of behaviour you expect of them. Then say something like, “See if you can do it?” Children will usually rise to a challenge.

Kids' Menu

If your children don’t want or like anything on the children’s menu, simply ask for something on the normal menu but in a starter or children's size. Any good restauranteur should oblige. You could also look at the menu before you go on the website and check that there are a few things your children are likely to eat.

Naptime

If you have a baby, then try to time it with their naptime. Make sure you get them off before you go in, as most babies are unlikely to sleep if they are in a n unusual environment.

Nibbles

Order some nibbles and drinks as soon as you sit down to occupy little fingers and quench little belly rumbles during the wait.

Help Out

Help out your waiters and waitresses. Encourage your children to clear the table of books etc. when they’re food arrives and direct them where all plates should go, especially hot ones away from your younger children. It’s much better to have the staff in a restaurant on your side!

Independence

Definitely let your children order their own food. But beware of pricey dishes that they’ve never tried before. The beady eyes of the lobster they so expertly ordered for example, may make them cry rather than try and that’s a lot of your money down the potty. Your children trying new foods is excellent so encourage it, however ask for a taster before they get a plateful.

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