I made the mistake of keeping track. Five times a week, my children indulge in fast food. We always hit the same chain that offers kale salads and fruit cups alongside their irresistible grilled nuggets. But it’s the fries—oh, those golden fries—that always tempt the kids, and honestly, I can’t resist a large serving myself. They wash it down with sweet tea, the kind that’s loaded with sugar, typical for the South. At least I can justify that they skip dessert due to gluten allergies, which rules out ice cream cones.
Yes, it sounds excessive, but I have my reasons. My cooking skills are limited to microwaving and scrambling eggs. I could whip up a healthy meal if I knew how, so we settle for fruit salad and fries. At least this way, I’m not heating up questionable nuggets or serving sandwiches made from mysterious meat products—especially when even the Animaniacs warn against questioning hot dogs. If we’re at home, I try for PB&J with some fruit, whether canned or fresh.
But most of the time, we’re on the go. Mondays are especially rushed before their homeschool PE class. Between actual homeschooling, getting myself ready, and dressing three kids—one of whom prefers to be in the nude—time slips away. Sometimes, I just need a shower for my sanity, and suddenly, it’s fast food time. I can feel the camaraderie with countless other moms; while I’m off to homeschool PE, they’re dashing to soccer or dance classes, all in need of a quick meal for their little ones. No guilt here.
When I tally it all up, sure, my kids consume a lot of deep-fried potatoes and sugary drinks. But this routine makes our lives so much smoother. If we’re running late, we swing through the drive-thru and munch on fruit cups and fries while cruising to the gym. My kids have mastered the art of eating in record time, much like every other kid in America. Some parents might feel guilty about this, but I see my kids—and the others devouring fries in their car seats—as culinary champions. No guilt here either.
After class, we often return to our favorite fast-food spot because it’s a great place to catch up with friends. At that time, the restaurant is typically quiet, allowing us to grab a table near the play area. My kids get a snack of fries and shared fruit cups, while I indulge in fries and a kale salad. They devour their meal quickly to dive into the play structure, which gives my friend and me precious kid-free time—sometimes up to an hour! It’s why so many mom groups flock to fast food joints. We can chat freely, vent, and reconnect without little ones tugging at our sleeves. It’s truly a gift.
On other days, my kids have music lessons. Both are full of energy, and they focus better after a good play session. The play area is perfect for this. I serve them lunch—nuggets, fries, and fruit cups—saving me time on meal prep at home. I can enjoy my own lunch (usually two kale salads and fries) while watching them unleash their energy in the play structure. After an hour of running around, they are ready for their lessons, where they behave better and concentrate more.
There are times when they eat in the car. When I’m in urgent need of a tea—like, really need it—I find myself in the drive-thru line, hearing the familiar chorus of “Ma-ma, I’m hun-gry” from the back seat. It doesn’t matter if they just ate; they want lemonades and fries. I try to suggest the fruit cup, but that usually falls on deaf ears. As a mom, I can’t say no to a hungry child, so I give in.
Then there’s breakfast. We often stop by a local place, and it always starts simply: I just need a tea. But by the time I reach the window, I find myself ordering hash browns, eggs, and bacon. I know I’m not the only mom grabbing the most important meal of the day via the drive-thru.
So, when I look at the big picture, yes, my kids enjoy a lot of industrial-fried potatoes and sugary drinks. But this system keeps our lives running smoothly. My husband comes home every evening to prepare delicious, nutritious meals that the kids eat, ensuring they get their veggies and proteins. During the day, I get the convenience I need. We simply wouldn’t manage without it, and I know I’m not alone in this.
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In summary, navigating the fast-food landscape as a parent can feel daunting, but it’s part of the modern family experience. Embracing convenience doesn’t have to come with guilt, especially when it keeps our lives balanced and functional.