5 Ways to Keep Kids Busy at Restaurants Without Screens
Eating Out With Kids Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful
As parents, we’ve all been there, you’re seated at a restaurant, waiting for food, and your little one starts getting fidgety... fast. While screens might seem like the easiest fix, we’re big believers in creative, screen-free play that keeps kids engaged and helps the whole family enjoy their time out.
Here are 5 mess-free, screen-free ways to keep toddlers and young kids busy at restaurants, so you can enjoy your meal without a side of chaos 🍽️✨
1. Reusable Colouring Mats – Quiet Fun That Lasts
Our top pick? Doodle On The Go Reusable Colouring Mats.
They’re compact, wipeable, and endlessly reusable, just roll them out and let your child colour with the included pens. It keeps their hands busy while stimulating creativity.
✅ No paper mess
✅ No need to pack multiple books
✅ Just wipe clean and reuse!
👉 Perfect for ages 2+ and fits in most handbags or changing bags.
A reusable animal footprint tracker colouring mat is a perfect screen-free option for restaurants, it’s wipe-clean, mess-free, and keeps little ones quietly engaged while they eat.
2. Magnetic Play Sets
Magnetic puzzles or scenes are a great option because they stick to the board, meaning fewer pieces lost under the table. Many come in travel tins and offer themed play (animals, vehicles, etc.).
🎯 Parent tip: Look for magnetic story sets that encourage quiet solo play or simple storytelling.
3. Restaurant Toy Bag – Only for Meals Out
Create a small "restaurant-only" toy bag that stays in the car or your bag. Fill it with:
- A few finger puppets
- Mini board books
- Fidget toys
- Reusable stickers
Rotating the contents keeps it fresh and exciting each time you eat out.
4. Storytime With Flashcards
If your child loves words, bring along a small set of alphabet or picture flashcards.
You can:
- Play “What’s this?” games
- Match objects on the table
- Make up silly stories together
Lightweight and educational - win-win!
5. Tabletop Games You Can Play with Cutlery
Don’t underestimate the power of imaginative play using what’s on the table!
Try these:
- “Cutlery balancing” (safely!)
- Napkin origami
- Salt shaker races (for older kids)
🎉 These spontaneous games foster imagination and help develop patience while waiting for food.
Final Thoughts: Screen-Free Doesn’t Mean Boring
You don’t have to sacrifice fun for calm. With a little prep and the right tools (like our reusable colouring mats 😉), eating out can become a joyful, shared experience, and not a battle.
👉 Ready to ditch the screens?
✨ Grab your Doodle On The Go Colouring Mat and make restaurant outings a treat for everyone.