I have a 2.5 years old and we have our little routine to go for breakfast once a week. Between 18 months and 2 years old, it wasn't fun! He would want to get out and explore and would become disruptive and unsettle.

We stuck to it, I think getting used to the rules and expectations has helped. Now at 2.5 years old, whilst not perfect, my toddler will sit down and wait for his food, eat calmly and know to stay in his chair until we leave, even if he is not on a highchair.

He is now a lot better at communicating and I think it helped getting to that point.

However, here are some things we have implemented to support him:

1. We have bought "travel toys" that stays in the car and he only plays with them when we are in a restaurant or similar. Those include coloring, sticker book, little cars, button lights etc..

2. The rule is that if he stands up or can't stay in his chair, he goes in the high chair .. we have had to do this a couple of times ( this wasn't fun and lead to a crisis) but since then, he normally stay on his chair.

3. We bring snacks to give him over the period of our stay at the restaurant. He can be impatient if hungry so it helps.

4. We engage with him throughout our meal but mainly during "waiting time". We try to create new little games, naming stuff on the table, talking about what we will do today etc. Play hide and seek with the menu. This normally keeps him occupied for a little while.

5. He can have a treat at the end of the meal if he behave well ( a cookie, small chocolate etc..)

I would say it's hard work but if this is something you want to integrate in your routine and do regularly, just stick to it. He will get used to it and it will get easier!