Dining out with kids can be equal parts joy and chaos. One minute you’re dreaming of a leisurely meal, and the next you’re dodging flying cutlery, dealing with tantrums, or rushing to scoff down your food between 20 bathroom breaks. Sound familiar?

The good news? With a little preparation, eating at family-friendly restaurants can actually be enjoyable for everyone. The secret is having a stash of screen-free activities for kids ready to go — compact enough to fit in your handbag, but fun enough to keep little ones busy while you savour your meal.

Here are some tried-and-tested favourites.

Screen-Free Ways to Entertain Kids While Dining Out

1. The Drawing Game

A surefire giggle generator! One person draws a head, folds the paper, passes it on; the next draws a body; the last adds the legs.

When you unfold it — surprise! — you’ve created a wacky creature. Perfect for sparking imagination.

2. Classic Word Games

Simple, fun, and always a hit. Try Hangman on a napkin or play an endless round of “I Spy.” They require nothing but creativity and are guaranteed to distract hungry tummies.

3. Conversation Cards

Bring along a set of table conversation cards to get everyone chatting. From silly questions to thoughtful ones, they’re brilliant for turning mealtime into a bonding experience (and not just a survival mission). We love the ones by Mindful Mealtime! 

4. Restaurant Bingo

Before heading out, make a quick bingo sheet with items kids might spot: “waiter carrying three plates,” “jug of water,” “pizza.” They’ll stay engaged, scanning the room while you relax.

5. Colouring, Colouring and More Colouring

The ultimate restaurant entertainment hack. A mini colouring pad and pencils are lightweight, quick to whip out, and always keep little hands busy until the food arrives.

Or, if you're after something you can just wipe clean and reuse, we reckon the Hey Doodle Mats are well worth the money. 

6. Mini Travel Games

Pack a couple of travel-sized family games like Uno, Connect 4 or magnetic board games. They’re compact, easy to set up, and will keep kids entertained long enough for you to enjoy that entrée.

7. Surprise Toy Bag

Pop a couple of tiny new toys (think fidgets, figurines, or stickers) into a small bag. The novelty factor buys you precious minutes of calm.

8. Origami Fun

Slip a couple of coloured sheets of paper into your bag. Folding simple shapes is soothing and keeps kids focused. Even if they don’t master a swan, squashed paper planes can be hilarious.

9. The Dot Game

Draw a 10x10 grid of dots, then take turns connecting lines. Every time you complete a square, it’s yours to claim. Low prep, but endlessly engaging.

Enjoy your relaxing meal, parents! 

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