Guide to Eating Out with an Infant

Babies change every aspect of your life. This also includes being able to dine out with no game plan. This game plan will have you actually enjoying your meal out.

Tip #1: Do NOT attempt to go out during naptime or too close to bedtime. Doing so is a recipe for disaster.

Tip #2: If you have a baby who is still exclusively breast/formula fed, feed your baby right before you walk out the door.

Tip #3: If you have a baby who is on solids but not table food-bring a little can of solids to feed them while waiting on your food.

Tip #4: For babies on solids, Cheerios are also a life saver. Just be prepared to pick up the dropped ones or leave a big tip for you waiter/waitress.

Tip #5: Ask to be seated away from other customers. This way, IF your baby cries or happily screeches a little too loud you will not disturb the other customers.

Tip #6: Plan where your baby will be sitting. For babies not yet sitting unassisted, an infant carrier/car seat is perfect-you can sit it on top of your table. Some seats even latch on to a standard highchair seat turned upside down. Other restaraunts offer slings to place the seat in. If your baby is sitting up unassisted, the standard high chair should do.

Tip #7: If you choose to use the standard high chair, bring antibacterial wipes. Better yet bring a cart cover (they work great on most high chairs!). There is a 95% chance that your child will attempt to eat part of the highchair (ok so I made those statistics up but it happens....alot!)

Tip #8: Do not set drinks, silverware or plates anywhere near a baby. Babies grab and reach for everything! Even if your baby is two months old and has never reached for anything..don't risk it. Chances are her first reach/grab will be your hot coffee while you are out. As stated before, don't risk it!

Tip #9: Bring a toy! Chances are your baby will need some kind of distraction at some point during your meal. Avoid loud/musical toys.

Tip #10: If these tips do not work and your baby fusses, do your best to take your child out of the dining area (restroom, bathroom ect) to calm him down.