A Parent’s Guide to Going Out to Eat with Sensory-Sensitive Kids

Going out to eat should be an enjoyable experience for the whole family, including any sensory-sensitive kids who need a more relaxing atmosphere than a busy restaurant during the dinner rush. Make that a reality by following our tips for eating out with sensory-sensitive children.It all starts with choosing the right establishment. Rollie’s Place was created specifically for people with sensory sensitivities, providing a widely accessible and welcoming café for people of all abilities. Preview the menu before you go, too, and ask if you could sit in a more private area to manage stimuli. Let your child take breaks if they get overwhelmed, and keep the experience as low-pressure and low-stakes as possible.Come to Rollie’s Place for a sensory-friendly café experience in Reading.

What Should Parents Do Before Going Out to Eat with Sensory-Sensitive Kids?

How you prepare for a trip to a restaurant or café with your sensory-sensitive child can make all the difference and help make it a positive experience for the entire family.

Choose the Right Restaurant

Rather than choosing a restaurant on a whim, take some time to find places that are less stimulating and more sensory-friendly for your child, like Rollie’s Place in Reading. Rollie’s Place is universally accessible, and its noise-reducing hooded chairs contribute to its sensory-friendly atmosphere.

Preview the Menu

It’s also a good idea to preview the menu before going out to eat with your sensory-sensitive kid. You want to make sure there are foods and drinks they’ll like, that are recognizable and comfortable. You can always pack some light snacks with you, just in case.

You can find all of the menu items at Rollie’s Place online and pick out options alongside your child before you both stop by. Click here to preview our menu.

Set Expectations

Before going out to eat with sensory-sensitive kids, parents should set their expectations. Restaurants are often busy, loud environments, which makes going out to eat difficult, especially for people with autism spectrum disorder. Be prepared for any reaction, and don’t get discouraged if it turns out to be a shorter meal than you hoped.

It also helps to set expectations with your child. Make sure they don’t feel pressure or anxiety about the experience, and that they know you’ll be there to support them no matter what.

What Can Parents Do While Out to Eat with Sensory-Sensitive Kids?

There are also plenty of things parents can do while out to eat with sensory-sensitive children to make it a more enjoyable, positive experience for everyone, especially your child.

Ask About Private Seating

When you are out to eat with your child who is sensitive to light, noise, and other stimuli, ask if there is a more private seating area. Booths can offer a sense of security, as well as tables that are more secluded, away from other diners and crowded areas.

Rollie’s Place has unique hooded chairs that help reduce overstimulation even during the busiest times of day. We also have a separate, private area for diners who are extremely sensitive to stimuli, making sure there is a place for everyone.

Let Your Child Take Breaks

Make sure your child knows that it’s okay to take breaks if they get overwhelmed while out to eat. A walk to get some fresh air may be all your child needs to reset and get into a better headspace before resuming their meal. Breaks away from stimuli help with emotional regulation, so suggest one if you notice your child getting overstimulated while out to eat.

Bring Sensory Tools

Sensory tools like fidget toys, a weighted blanket on the lap, noise-canceling headphones, or stress balls help people of all ages manage sensory overload, making them feel more grounded and relaxed during overstimulation. Bring sensory tools with you when you take your child out to eat, and make sure your child knows they are there if they need them.

FAQs About Going Out to Eat with Sensory-Sensitive Kids

Where Can I Go Out to Eat with My Sensory-Sensitive Kid?

Rollie’s Place in Reading is a great choice if you want to go out to eat with your sensory-friendly child and ensure the spot you choose is accessible and tailored to your child’s needs and comforts.

What is the Best Time to Go Out to Eat with My Sensory-Sensitive Child?

It’s a good idea to go out to eat, especially at popular restaurants, during off hours, so there are fewer people and less stimuli for your sensory-sensitive child.

How Can I Make Going Out to Eat More Enjoyable for My Sensory-Sensitive Child?

Make going out to eat more enjoyable for your sensory-sensitive kid by preparing them for what to expect, bringing sensory tools for moments of overstimulation, and requesting more private seating to reduce noise and anxiety.

Should I Plan What to Order Before Going Out to Eat with My Sensory-Sensitive Child?

Preview the menu and identify all the meals your child would enjoy before going out to eat so that they do not have to stress about making decisions and ordering, which can be overwhelming.

Should I Make a Reservation to Go Out to Eat with My Sensory-Sensitive Child?

You and your child may get seated faster at a restaurant with a reservation, which can help manage the stress, anxiety, or boredom of waiting for a table. Though Rollie’s Place is a café, we appreciate advance notice for parties of 6 or more, so you don’t have to wait long.

Where Can My Sensory-Sensitive Child Go Out to Eat with Their Friends?

Your sensory-sensitive child can go out to eat with their friends at Rollie’s Place in Reading, located at 755 Hiesters Lane.

Try Rollie’s Place for Sensory-Friendly Dining

Take your sensory-sensitive child to Rollie’s Place today.