Taking your toddler to a restaurant can be a nerve-wracking experience. You want them to have a good time, but you also don’t want them to disrupt the other diners. The last thing any parent wants is for their toddler to spend the whole meal asking for a phone or tablet! Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can keep your little one entertained and happy without having to resort to digital devices. Here are some of our favorite tips and tricks.

Keep Them Busy with Toys

Bringing along some of your child’s favorite toys can help keep them occupied during the meal. A few small items that are easy to stow away in a pocket or purse will do the trick. This could be anything from dolls, cars, action figures, coloring books, and stickers!

Encourage Engaging Conversation

If your child is old enough for conversation—and not just endless questions about why they can’t have a phone yet—engaging them in meaningful dialogue is an easy way to keep them entertained while you wait for your food. Ask questions about things they learned in school or what they did during the day and encourage them to answer thoughtfully. Not only will it keep their mind off phones, but it will also help strengthen your bond with them as well!

Play Games

Another great way to pass the time while waiting for dinner is by playing games with your toddler at the table. For example, you can play ‘I Spy’ game and look for objects in a particular color.

Don’t Give In

If you decided to not use electronics at the restaurant, don’t give in half way. Just leave your phone in the car, so it doesn’t distract anyone, even including you.

Keeping your toddler entertained at a restaurant doesn’t have to mean giving into their demands for phones and tablets all of the time. With just a bit of creativity and engagement on your part, it’s possible for everyone at the table—even toddlers—to have an enjoyable dining experience without having any digital distractions! So next time you’re out at dinner with your little one, try out some of these fun ideas instead!

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