This post is sponsored by Shamrock Farms, all opinions are my own.

As much as we love a good home-cooked meal, we love being able to go out and enjoy one another’s company at a great restaurant as well. Since it’s the holidays and the last day of work and school, we decided we would do a family night out at Buffalo Wild Wings. My husband and son could enjoy sports on the big screen, and the kids who have been begging for weeks to have wings can finally enjoy some!

Did you know that one of the best ways to eat spicy wings is with milk? Buffalo Wild Wings serves Shamrock Farms milk which is locally sourced from its family of farms. Since milk is the no. 1 source of calcium and offers 8g of protein, it’s the perfect way to soothe your pallet and beat the heat.

Did you know that one of the best ways to eat spicy wings is with milk? Buffalo Wild Wings serves Shamrock Farms milk which is locally sourced from its family of farms. Since milk is the no. 1 source of calcium and offers 8g of protein, it’s the perfect way to soothe your pallet and beat the heat.

How to take the stress out of dining out

Ask to be seated away from others.

I used to feel that this was something I should never have to do as a parent. But I’ve learned over the years, for my sanity, that this is probably one of the best moves that I could make. There are restaurants that have sections designated for families with kids. If the one you are visiting does not, simply ask if there is any way that they can seat you privately, as not to disturb others. Most will appreciate you being courteous of that from the start and are willing to accommodate your request.

Bring along an activity.

Depending on the type of restaurant it is, they may already have crayons and coloring pages available, however, if they don’t, try and pack some small *quiet* activities of your own. We brought a small Lego kit from the Dollar Tree for my 11-year-old and a few crayons and coloring pages for the girls. This was a lifesaver for me while I waited for my husband to park the car and come inside (he was gone about 20 minutes since he had to walk back).

Bring snacks or order an appetizer.

Bringing food to a restaurant when you are about to eat may sound silly, but having worked in restaurants I can tell you anything can happen. This means as much as you want your food to come out quickly, try and be prepared for the worst. Adults get “hangry” when they haven’t eaten, so you can imagine that kids get the same way, times ten. I know a lot of parents who I have eaten out with, feel as if it is important that their kids learn patience and just wait for their food. However, I can tell you for the other patrons who are sitting around you, this isn’t always the best practice. It may work for older children but not with younger ones.

How do you handle dining out with young children? If you have any tips, be sure to share them below!