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As parents, many of the things you once enjoyed as a couple are going to be a bit more time-consuming and are going to require more advanced preparation now that you're a family. For example, before you head out to the restaurant you're going to make sure you have a high chair cover and a myriad of other necessities for your baby. Below are some steps, in addition to a high chair cover, that you'll want to complete before heading out the door with your little one.

Gathering Supplies

When you decide to head to the restaurant with your baby, you'll want to go ahead and begin getting together the supplies you'll need for the experience. Obviously, the high chair cover must come along because they provide padding which will keep your child comfortable in those hard high chairs and will keep nasty germs away from your baby's underdeveloped immune system.

However a high chair cover is only one piece of this puzzle. You'll also need some items to keep your baby entertained. For example, why not bring along a favorite rattle, teething ring, stuffed animal, or book. You might also want to sneak in your baby's favorite cookies or a few finger foods, such as Vienna sausages or carrot sticks. Don't forget the pacifier, fresh diapers, a bottle of juice or milk, and anything else that might help keep your baby happy.

Preparing the Baby

It's a good idea to change the baby's diaper before you go out. Not only will you not want him or her to make a big, smelly mess in the high chair cover but a changed baby is going to be a lot less fussy. If your baby tends to potty on a schedule, it might be a good idea to work your restaurant plans around this schedule so you don't end up having to make a change in the middle of dinner.

You might also consider feeding the baby before you reach the restaurant especially if he or she is breastfeeding or still on formula only. How are you going to be enjoying your evening and your meal if you have to drop everything to feed the baby? Instead, plan ahead. Feed him or her on time but plan to go to dinner afterwards.

Have the Money for a Good Tip

Despite bringing along the high chair cover, your baby will probably still make a mess at the restaurant table. That's to be expected of a baby who is just experiencing these social situations for the first time. These are learning experiences but they do come at a cost to you, including temporary moments of embarrassment over your child's behavior and more generous tips than normal to repay the staff for the extra work it takes to clean up after your little angel.

High chair cover & Restaurants

The bottom line is bringing your baby along for these valuable experiences but don't leave behind the high chair cover or any other necessity in the process.