This Mom's Hack For Going Out To Eat With A Toddler Has The Internet Shook

It’s no secret. Going out to eat is hella expensive.

Adult meals are outrageous, and the kids’ meals are out of control.

But, what about toddlers — the ones too little to eat a kids’ meal, but too fidgety to just sit there while the family chows down.

Do you just suck it up and get them a kids’ meal?

One TikTok mom would say a definite “No,” and I will admit, I feel her pain.

Call me cheap, call me whatever, but if we’re going out to a restaurant, I’m packing my kid a meal.
Karlie Smith

I do this for many reasons. On Friday nights, my family and I get together, and tonight, we’re getting food out. My son is not getting food out.
Karlie Smith

She has the right idea, IMHO.

See, her kid is a toddler, and if you have ever gone out to eat with a toddler, you understand.

Half the dang food is going to end up on the floor, anyway.

For one, you want me to pay $6.99 for chicken tenders and fries that my son is going to throw half of it on the floor? You’re crazy.
Karlie Smith

I think she’s being pretty generous with the $6.99 price tag. Most of the places we go price their kids’ meals about $8 — and that’s for like half the food!!

Not to mention, the restaurant food is usually totally unhealthy. Chicky Nuggs, Hamburgers, Pizza, Hot Dogs, etc.

Sure, it’s all food that tastes great, but maybe not so healthy for the littles.

Whatever I pack is probably going to be healthier than what the restaurant has anyways.
Karlie Smith

I have to admit, I’d rather have my toddler eating the food Karlie packs instead of the greasy restaurant food.

She loads a plastic container up with a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, sliced bananas, cheddar cheese cubes, and a chocolate Lara bar.

Now, she’s not a monster. She does get her little a restaurant treat: chocolate milk.

Also, I usually get him chocolate milk because that’s his little takeout treat — And after he finishes his food, he’s usually eating off my plate.
Karlie Smith

Reactions to Karlie’s genius idea for going out to eat with toddlers have been divided.

Some people have STRONG opinions, and I’m curious to hear your thoughts.