Category — Family Dining

Can’t keep your kid seated at the dinner table? Maybe you should give Tribal Green’s Tot-Tye a tug. The organic cotton device ($28) ties children to their seats with two straps.

For parents in a bind, the Tot-Tye may provide temporary relief, but some wee ones would probably still manage to wiggle their way out of the restraint.

What do you think of the Tot-Tye?

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 By Ericka Lutz

Eating out with toddlers doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Try these great tips to make your restaurant experiences more palatable.

OK, let’s get it straight: having kids doesn’t mean your life is over or that you have to sacrifice your social life. I’m passionate about this belief, especially when it comes to eating out, an activity our family long ago elevated to high hobby. I want my daughter to appreciate fine food and good dining as much as I do, so from the time she was born we’ve been hauling her to restaurants—and having a good time, too.

Granted, we’re unusual. If you’re like most parents, it’s been a long time since you ventured beyond the neighborhood pizza parlor with little ones. Remember those long ago days before kids when you used to go to real restaurants? Not McHotDog Queen. Not that faux Italian place in the mall with the floor sticky from spilled soda where they pass out free earplugs at the door to drown out the endless beeps and crashes of the video arcade. I’m talking about places with tablecloths and wait staff, not announcements over the loud speaker (”Number 12, your dinner is ready … number 12, please!”).

I know. Next month is your anniversary, and you plan to get a babysitter and go out. Until then … Until then …? That’s no way to live! While going out to eat with babies and toddlers can be a challenge, it isn’t impossible, foolhardy, or insane. It’s usually enjoyable. It does take a little practice but it’s worth it.

Here, then, is a quick hit version of everything I know about restauranteering with the under-five set. [Read more →]