Eating out with the Kids the Affordable Way

(Mother Son "Knight" at Chickfila)

There is a good chance I enjoy eating out a little too much.  It's a bad habit we picked up when Ethan was first born.  We just couldn't figure out how to handle a new baby and everything else that life dished out and still find time to make dinner.  I like to think I have gotten WAY better at this, but still enjoy a lazy evening out.  Like everything else in life, it is my mission to find the most affordable way to eat out  :)

Here are some of my Mommy Tricks and Tips:

*Avoid ordering a kids meal that they are going to eat 2 bites of and be done (read on for more)


*Pack your own juice box and fruit cup.  There is no point in paying $1 or more for each


*When you order your side and entree keep the kids in mind.  Order something that you can share with them.


*Stash some Crystal Light packets in your purse and just order water.


*No sugar added Nesquik powder is HUGE in our house.  Put some in your formula storage container and add to your child's milk. (does not save money, but does save some bouncing off the walls from the sugary stuff)  ;)


*Go for the bigger kid's meal and split with the 2 kids.  If the younger child is old enough to realize they aren't getting a toy you can order an extra toy and still be better off than ordering 2 meals. (I do this at McDonald's for my 4 year old and 18 month old)


*Know when kids eat free and take advantage of it! You might be surprised of all the places that offer kids eat free night.  Start making a master list of your local restaurants.  Check their website, give them a call, or just ask the next time you are in to verify the details of each restaurant's promo details.


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