We’ve all had those nights out at restaurants where everything seems to be going well until your little one is suddenly reminded of their toddler status. It’s almost like a switch flips, and the once-pleasant dinner morphs into a scene straight out of a dramatic play. The tantrum erupts, and suddenly you’re not just managing a meltdown; you’re also navigating the disapproving glares from fellow diners.
A recent post by parenting blogger Jamie Tanner, known for his candid insights on fatherhood, has gone viral for capturing this exact moment that many parents can relate to. He recounts a family dinner that took a turn when his two-year-old daughter decided she wanted to throw her chicken strips instead of eat them. “I was the only one who had finished my meal, so of course, I got the honor of taking her outside,” he writes. “As I carried her past the bar, I could feel the eyes of the mostly childless crowd boring into me, silently judging my parenting choices.”
It’s true: the tantrum itself is tough, but the scrutiny from onlookers can feel even harsher. “I used to be a server and often shared in the complaints about unruly children,” Jamie reflects. “Now, I’m on the receiving end of those judgments, and I wish I could have a chat with my pre-parent self about the realities of raising kids.”
Before we have children, it’s easy to believe we have all the answers about parenting. But when you’re in the thick of it, you realize that it’s a learning process for both you and your child. “She’s just two, and it’s going to take time for her to learn how to behave in public,” he explains. “The only way she’ll learn is through experience — which means I have to take her out, say no repeatedly, and sometimes, let her throw a fit.”
Jamie notes that while some may wish families would just stay home until their kids reach a certain age, that’s simply not realistic. “I felt that judgement without anyone saying a word,” he shares. “It’s the vibe you get when you’re hauling a screaming child out of a restaurant — lots of disapproving looks. Sadly, most parents understand this feeling all too well.”
“I get it, kids can be disruptive in restaurants, and it’s frustrating,” he adds. “But before you cast judgment, remember that you’re witnessing parents doing their best to navigate a challenging situation. This is part of the journey of raising a child.”
If you’re looking for more insights on navigating parenting challenges, check out one of our other blog posts here. And if you’re considering starting a family, you might find helpful resources like this guide on pregnancy and home insemination. For those interested in at-home options, reputable retailers such as Make A Mom offer various kits to help you on your journey.
In summary, dining out with kids is an adventure filled with unpredictability. While tantrums can be tough to manage, the judgment from others can often feel even more challenging. Every parent faces these moments, and it’s crucial to remember that it’s all part of the learning experience for both the child and the parent.