Ordering from the “Kids Menu”- What does it Teach our Kids about Going out to Eat?
I remember going out to eat with my parents as a child. Whether it was Mexican, Chinese or Italian food, I always ordered a hamburger. I fit into the category of 12 years old or younger, which meant I got to order from a special menu with all of my favorite foods. I was a picky eater and the comfort of knowing there would be a menu for people like me made it easier for us to dine out. While I was able to enjoy the time with my family, I missed out on eating some traditional ethnic foods that I have now grown to love.
Mac-n-cheese, grilled cheese, pizza and chicken fingers. These were the most popular answers when I asked people what they think of when they hear the term “kid food.” Would you agree? It’s no wonder people said this given that these foods are easy to prepare, often highly processed, and kids often enjoy eating them. From a parent’s perspective these foods are convenient and make it easier to please even the pickiest of eaters. When I think about “kid food,” I think differently. It’s just FOOD. If we start defining what constitutes kid food, then aren’t we obligated to also define the term adult food?
From a young age, children are learning that there is a separate menu for them when they go out to eat. No matter what the cuisine is, this menu isn’t usually a smaller version of the regular menu, but consists of traditional “kid food” that restaurants know parents and kids will order from. When we order off of the kid’s menu, we take away the opportunity to expose children to new flavors, textures and different types of cuisines that they might enjoy eating. Why shouldn’t I expect my 3 year old to eat Thai food if that’s what I’m in the mood for? Perhaps it’s not something he’s used to eating but don’t 3 year old children in Thailand eat Thai food? I understand it may be a non-familiar food to him, but still, why can’t mine?
I’ll admit I’ve gotten into the habit of ordering from the kids menu for my kids. The portion sizes are smaller, the price is cheaper and the food is often served in fun ways. Plus, it’s often served right along with dessert- and that’s a win in my book. I realized recently that even as an adult ordering from the children’s menu remains a comfort for me, except now it’s for feeding my kids instead of feeding myself. If I don’t break this habit, my children will inevitably feel comforted by it as well. I have decided that I am going to work on ordering from the regular menu for my kids more often. Perhaps they can split a meal or we can take any leftovers home for their lunch the next day. After all, isn’t it just FOOD? And since that’s the case, I might start ordering mac-n-cheese for myself.