Let me tell you its definitely an experience dining out with children! As the child gets older and you start teaching them table manners, things will get better but sometimes it seems like it never will!

I suggest starting out "small". Take your child to a kid friendly place is a must! Don't expect miracles! If the child starts acting up,, leave.

Ever since my so could talk we would let him order his food, we would point out the menu of items he would like and let him pick. When we first started doing this we would have to repeat to the wait staff what he wanted. Now at the age of 5 he can read part of the menu and always orders for himself. The wait staff is usually pretty impressed that he does this, and we like the fact that he is learning to communicate to others what he wants. He will even tell them when he is done eating so they can take his plate away.

Bring a distraction! if the kid is small bring a small non noisy toy,, such as a book, a doll, car,, etc.. This can easily be fit into a purse or diaper bag if your child is small. This will keep their mind busy if there is a wait. Ask for crackers if the wait is a while, this way the kids don't feel hungry while your waiting for food. Most places will  have crackers on hand.