When it comes to dining out with young children, many parents turn to kid’s meal options. Kids’ meals are designed to appeal to a younger audience, typically offering familiar food items, smaller portions, and fun activities or toys. Although the exact items vary from restaurant to restaurant, there are many items that are commonly found in a kids meal.
Contents
Main Entrees
The main entree of a kids meal is usually a kid-friendly item. Many restaurants offer a burger, chicken tenders, macaroni and cheese, or fish sticks. This entree is often served with a side of fries or tater tots. Some restaurants even offer more unique entrees such as a quesadilla or grilled cheese sandwich.
Drinks
The drink served with a kids meal is usually a juice box, soda, or milk. Water is also a common drink option. Many restaurants also offer a special kids drink such as a slushy or flavored milk.
Desserts
A dessert is usually included in a kids meal. This dessert is often a cookie, ice cream, or a cup of yogurt. Some restaurants offer an alternate dessert such as a piece of fruit or pudding.
Side Dishes
Many kids meals offer a side dish such as a small salad, fruit cup, or mashed potatoes. This side dish is usually a smaller portion than what is served with an adult meal. Some restaurants also offer a special side dish such as a small bowl of soup or a side of vegetables.
Toys and Activities
Toys and activities are often included in a kids meal. These can range from a small stuffed animal, a coloring book and crayons, or a small game. Many restaurants also offer special activities such as a scavenger hunt or a maze.
Price
Kids meals are often offered at a discounted price when compared to adult meals. This is an attractive option for parents who want to treat their children to a restaurant meal without spending too much money. Prices can vary from restaurant to restaurant, but most kids meals are around $5 or less.
Healthy Options
Many restaurants offer healthy options for their kids meals. These meals usually include leaner proteins such as grilled chicken, fish, or turkey. Many restaurants also offer fresh fruit and vegetable sides. Some restaurants even offer meals that are low in calories, sodium, and fat.
Allergies
When ordering a kids meal, it is important to consider any food allergies that your child may have. Many restaurants offer a special menu for children with food allergies and have options that are free of common allergens such as gluten, peanuts, and dairy. It is important to inform the restaurant of any allergies before ordering.
Kids meals are a great option for parents who want to treat their children to a restaurant meal. Kids meals usually include a main entree, a drink, a side dish, a dessert, and sometimes a toy or activity. Most kids meals are also offered at a discounted price and many restaurants offer healthy options and accommodations for food allergies.