It’s no secret that we all love going out to eat. We don’t have to go grocery shopping, cook something that everyone will like, or worry about cleaning. That being said, sometimes going out to eat doesn’t have the healthiest options, especially for kids. This can cause us to not go out to eat, as we want our children to have a healthy diet. Not only because it’s important for their overall health, but their oral health as well. For this reason, the best pediatric dentist in Wyckoff offers some advice for how to help your child eat healthier at restaurants.
Skip The Kids Meal
Although some restaurants offer healthy kids meals, the reality is that most of them have fried chicken tenders, burgers, and other unhealthy options. For these reasons, it may be best to skip the kids meal next time you go out to eat. If your kid is too young to eat a full meal, you can consider having them split the meal with you or their siblings. If it’s not enough food, you can always order an extra side of vegetables.
Order Them Water or Milk
Although restaurants have endless soda, fun kids smoothies, and juice, these drinks are filled with sugar. No matter where you go, the best drink option will always be water or milk.
Avoid Fries or Other Fried Sides
Oftentimes, a kids go-to order is fries. Instead, try ordering them a healthier alternative. If you don’t mind if they eat some fries, try ordering a smaller portion or a side of fries for the entire table to share.
Split Dessert
One of the great things about going out to eat is eating food that you normally wouldn’t eat, including dessert. If you and your family are craving a sweet treat, it’s perfectly fine! That being said, you may want to order your child a small dessert off the kids menu or have the table share a dessert. That way your kids will be able to enjoy a treat, without overindulging.
Among the many benefits of your child having a healthy diet, an improved oral health is one of them. For more tips on how to maintain your kids oral health, ask your best pediatric dentist in Wyckoff.
