Going out to eat is common in today's fast-paced society where both parents often work outside of the home. The foods, environment, and social expectations of going to a restaurant should be considerations when choosing where to dine.

Foods

Does your child have a special diet? Some children with special needs have dietary needs. A few of the more common dietary restrictions include: no gluten, no caffeine, limited sugar intake, and no peanuts or their by-products.

Some children require foods that meet limited chewing and digestive abilities. Some children are resistant to eating foods that do not fall on a limited, preferred list.

Consider the foods offered by the restaurant. Are they ones that your child can tolerate health-wise? Are they foods that she is willing to eat? If the answer to either of those questions is no, your family has several choices:

• Choose another restaurant.

• Take alternate foods with you.

• Plan to eat at that restaurant at a future time without your

Environment

Consider the restaurant environment. Lights, noise, and too many people can make some restaurants overwhelming for a child on the autism spectrum. Some restaurants are more appealing at times other than the dinner rush. Tables that are too close together can make it uncomfortable and difficult for a child who uses a wheelchair or a walker.

Restaurant Behavior

Work with your child on appropriate restaurant behaviors. Staying at the table, using a quiet voice, not staring at others, and eating with generally good table manners are important. In order to help your child keep her behavior on track, try these ideas:

• Teach table manners at home.

• Talk about behavioral expectations before you go to the restaurant.

• Take a small activity bag with you to help your child as she waits for her meal. An activity bag might include paper and crayons, books, a small car or doll, or a small handheld game.

Most children with special needs easily pick up table manners if they are practiced at every meal, regardless of location.

Restaurant Workers

You will find most restaurant workers accommodating if they understand your needs (perhaps a table away from the busy center of the dining room) and if it is not their rush time of business. If your child has dietary considerations, call ahead and talk to the person in charge of the kitchen.

Other Diners

The other diners will be a contributing factor to the overall experience. In a close environment, people tend to stare, often without realizing it. Usually a firm, but definite, smile in their direction will remind them of their action. In general, think of the experience as a chance for others to see what a great child you have.