Eating out with children

There's a lot to think about when eating out with children but some simple tips can help you choose healthier options

A family with a toddler sitting at a table in a restaurant with a menu in front of them

Tips for when eating out with children

Eating out with children can be a fun and enjoyable experience but finding healthy menu choices can sometimes feel like a challenge.

Most restaurants provide specific menus for younger children, but the choices can be limited and less healthy than those on the adult menu. When eating out with children:

  • consider choosing a small or half portion from the adult menu if available
  • portion sizes are often large when eating out, so you could share a meal with your child, and this can also help them try different foods

When choosing a meal for your child:

  • options that are grilled or baked are healthier than fried
  • encourage meals where vegetables or beans and pulses like peas, lentils, and chickpeas are the main feature. If your children will eat them, vegetables as a side are a great way to help them reach their 5 a day
  • salt may have been added in the kitchen already so avoid adding more
  • ask if they have healthier sides to chips, such as rice, potatoes, or baked beans
  • if adding sauce, having a small amount is healthier as these can be high in fat, sugar and salt
An adult feeding a young child at a table in a cozy dining setting.

Drinks and desserts:

  • fruit is a healthy choice for dessert
  • sugary drinks, diet/no added sugar drinks, fizzy drinks and flavoured milks drinks should be avoided for children up to the age of 5 years
  • water or pasteurised whole or semi-skimmed milk remain the best choices for all children
  • fruit juice and smoothies can count towards your child’s five a day, but these should be unsweetened and limited to one small glass (150ml) per day
Child drinking from a cup at a café table.

Important

Slushies should not be given to children aged 4 years and under. Refills should not be offered to children aged 10 years and under. Read more about slush-ice drinks and children aged 10 years and under

Snacks

If you're regularly buying snacks when out and about, consider preparing healthier snacks at home and taking them with you, such as slices of fruit or vegetables. This can help kids eat healthier snacks and can help you save money.

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