Dining out with kids

All parents have those moments when they believe they will never, ever, eat anywhere finer than McDonald's until their children head off to college. But here are seven tips on how to take your child out for a meal and survive.1. Do lunch, not dinner. Attitudes are more relaxed on both sides of the table. Prices also are lower at lunch, so it isn't as big a loss if kids don't eat all of their meal.

2. Patronize the same restaurants consistently. If you and your family are recognized as regulars, you'll be welcomed more warmly and have more slack cut if your kid gets frisky. Conversely, your child will know the drill and act accordingly.

3. Prepping for cleanup is vital. Arrive armed with moist wipes, plastic place mats and paper napkins. Pick up any food that falls on the table and the floor. Tip liberally to ensure a cheery greeting when you return.

4. Choose the restaurant wisely. A cozy, family-friendly neighborhood restaurant that has been around forever is always a better choice than some new hot spot.

5. Consider the menu. Kids have more sensitive palates; spicy or hot food might be a turnoff. Bones and skin and unwieldy chunks also can pose a challenge to little, clumsy fingers. Look over the menu in advance, if you can.

6. Don't freak out if your child wants to try "strange" food. So squab (aka pigeon) is on the menu? Stay cool, even if the drumstick arrives with claw attached.

7. Divert hungry kids with a good food story. Have tales that explain how a dish was created or why it looks or tastes the way it does or how it got its name. This works particularly well with ethnic fare. Pizza margherita is named for an old queen of Italy, for example. Just use judgment: A rib joint isn't the place to talk about how a slaughterhouse operates.

CHICAGO TRIBUNE