(NC)
- Sure all parents would love (and deserve) a peaceful dinner with cloth
napkins, candlelight and crystal. But when the little ones aren’t ready for a
fancy, formal meal and the fast food drive-thru has seen your mini-van one too
many times... it’s time to do your ABCs (of dining out with the kids of course!).
"Our serving staff knows their alphabet, and "families and kids
101" is our favorite subject" said Nils Kravis, President of Kelsey’s
International, the parent company of Kelsey’s and Montana’s Cookhouse. "We
know how to please families and aim to give our guests the best casual dining
experience in Canada."
Accidents happen when kids
are around. Family restaurants expect it and are well trained for any
messy situation.
Bibs and Bottles are
perfectly acceptable at the dinner table.
Crayons are considered a
staple item when eating out - especially when colouring books and other
goodies are offered.
Doggie bags are great for
dinner the next day.
Embarrassment fees are
included in your tip - don’t worry!
Family-friendly restaurants
always have kiddie menus, high chairs and booster seats to accommodate
you.
Games are a great way of
passing time while waiting for your meals. Try "I spy",
"Tic Tac Toe" or "The Alphabet Game".
Hungry children are not
patient children! Let us know and we’ll get their meals out first.
Ice cream’s a great way to
end the meal.
Join in the fun! If you’re
celebrating a birthday, inform the restaurant. Family-friendly restaurants
often have birthday treats!
Kid’s meals are made for
kids, with their favourite foods in mind.
Leave room for dessert - it’s
a great treat for the entire family.
Mom’s and Dad’s deserve a
night out too.
Napkins are always handy for
spills and splatters. Don’t hesitate to ask for more!
Ordering dinner for the kids
can take a few minutes. Take your time, serving staff are patient and
always willing to offer suggestions if you can’t decide!
Picky eaters are very popular
and always welcome at family-friendly restaurants.
Quality family restaurants
like Kelsey’s and Montana’s Cookhouse are great a place to go with kids.
Re-visit your favorite
restaurants but don’t be afraid to try new ones too.
Saturday and Sunday are great
days to take kids out to eat. After a busy work/school week, families
deserve a break.
Time with family is
important. If you want a break from cooking, try ordering take-out from
your favorite family restaurant.
Utilize all that the
restaurant has to offer. Ask about games and other special items for
little ones.
Vegetables may not be a
popular item among children, but you can try to sneak some in their
hamburgers or sandwiches.
‘Wet naps’ were a great
invention. Don’t be shy to ask your sever for one if you need it!
X-anadu: a location parents
will think they are in when their kids are happy and well fed.
Young kids (and adults)
usually enjoy dining out. Keep restaurant dining in mind for birthday
parties, holidays, or make it part of your weekly/monthly routine.
Zany moments can happen at
dinnertime with the kids so expect the unexpected.