Eating Out

While babies and small children are unfailingly welcome in eating places abroad, we British are far less tolerant. Small babies in carry-cots do not usually present too many problems, although if you are nervous you can check with the restaurant in advance. Dressing with a little thought usually makes discreet breastfeeding possible – the table itself provides a screen – or ask beforehand if they have a room you can use.

Most restaurants which specifically welcome children provide high-chairs, otherwise ask if you can bring a portable one which fastens to the table or a chair. Taking suitable toys, diversions, drinks in appropriate containers and making sure your child is hungry, so that he spends at least part of the time eating, all helps. Timing of sleep to coincide with the meal and either rocking him off beforehand in a pram or reclining pushchair often works well, or one of you can nip out for a few turns round the block to lull him off between courses. Park the chair or pram inside and within sight or sound.

The most difficult age to eat out with children is between the onset of walking to around three years, although it depends slightly on your child’s temperament. All the previous tips still apply, and in addition you can give him lots of exercise beforehand and keep his interest by telling him a bit about what is happening around him. Waiting for food is a sophisticated challenge for toddlers, so bring a private supply of mini-sandwiches or bits of fruit to ward off screams of anguish when the next table gets served first! Generally, though, if the meal out is meant to be something of a treat for you, arranging to leave a toddler with someone else for an hour or two may spare you both unnecessary trauma.