Eating at a restaurant can be a fun thing to do with the family, but when the children misbehave what started as a pleasant evening turns into a nightmare. Next time you take the kids out for a meal, keep these tips in mind for a more enjoyable experience.

1.) Details, details, details: When making a reservation or putting your name on a waitlist, tell the host if there are children in your party. Do you need a high-chair or a booster seat? There will be less hassle if the restaurant knows exactly what you need up-front. You will be seated somewhere everyone can fit, and will not have to stand around holding your baby as you wait for a high-chair.

2.) Kids are picky eaters. If you did not receive a children’s menu, always ask for one. Most restaurants have some sort of kid’s menu offering a range of kid-friendly meals. This is much easier than asking if there is a "smaller portion" of a given menu item; when it comes to menus, what you see is usually what you get meaning no "smaller portion."

3.) Keep the children occupied. Don’t be afraid to ask the server for crayons if they were not given to you. Even if the restaurant does not have a coloring sheet, most servers would be happy to give your child some scrap paper to keep him occupied.

4.) Be prepared. Ask your children to choose what they want to eat before the server takes the order. Kids change their minds constantly, and knowing what to order ahead of time will save a lot of time. Also, if you would like your child to eat right away, don’t hesitate to put in his order ahead of time or feel free to ask the server for crackers for your child to snack on.

5.) Discipline when necessary. If your child starts crying in the restaurant, please take him outside to complete the tantrum. Other people in the restaurant are there to enjoy a nice meal and would prefer not to listen to your screaming baby.

6.) Don't leave a mess. When getting ready to leave, clean up any mess your child may have made. If you let your kids throw food on the floor, do not leave it there for the server to clean after. Your server has done his best to keep you and your children happy, and it is only appropriate to clean up after your kids.

If you keep these tips in mind the next time you’re out to eat you will have an easier time and be welcomed back with open arms.