Mom's economical hack for dining out with her two-year-old son sparks debate: 'I'm packing a meal'

Taking your children out for a meal can be challenging. You have to deal with the noise and excitement that comes with it, as well as manage their moods, emotions and constant energy. However, it becomes much easier if restaurants offer affordable meals that are suitable for kids. When this isn't the case, parents often find creative solutions to ensure their little ones are well-fed. Karlie—who goes by @unbreakablemomma on TikTok— shared what she does for her child when their family goes out to dine at a restaurant.

She packs meals for her two-year-old kids and does not allow them to eat at the restaurant. Karlie explains the reason behind this in her viral video which has resonated with many other parents. She said, "Call me cheap, call me whatever, but if we’re going out to a restaurant, I’m packing my kid a meal. On Friday nights, my family and I get together, and tonight, we’re getting food out. My son is not getting food out."

She expressed her hesitation due to the expensive prices at the restaurant, explaining that she doesn't want to spend ten dollars on a meal that her two-year-old son might not even eat completely. Karlie added, "For one, you want me to pay $6.99 for chicken tenders and fries that my son is going to throw half of it on the floor? You’re crazy."

She shared that she packs healthier meals for her son than what the restaurant usually offers. “Tonight on the menu: peanut butter and jelly, bananas, mild cheddar cheese cubes and a chocolate Lara bar. Also, when we get to a restaurant, my child is not waiting for anyone to take his order. He wants to eat now. I can just hand him this and let him go to town,” she said.

Karlie's video went viral and gained half a million views and several parents and service staff agreed with her solution. @mazieee07 commented, "As a server, you have no idea how many times I picked up a kids' plate that was not even touched. @b.eelime wrote, "This is genius. My son is so picky and I always end up paying for something he doesn’t eat." @lindsaysilvaaa wrote, "I tried doing this once and I felt so much mom guilt. Like I was leaving her out or something." Karlie offered a solution to this guilt by replying, "I get it! Sometimes I take my son out for special mommy and me meals!"

However, some parents completely disagreed with Karlie and her creative solution for going out with her son. @shelb_5524 commented, "I just bring a snack for the wait but I think going out to eat is special for everyone not just the adults." @appleheather79 wrote, "In my house, everyone eats out or no one eats out! My parents had the same rules!" @krissitler18 said, "I'm gonna pay that 6.99 for my child because this is so wrong." @ladigaia11 wrote, "I personally couldn’t do this. We go out every Wednesday and Sunday for family dinners I have 5 kids from 4 months to 15 years old, I don't care what gets wasted."