But, thankfully, some chain restaurants and cafes are offering free kids meals, or discounted prices, across the six week holidays, to lend that much-appreciated helping hand to parents.
From supermarket cafes, to pubs and chain restaurants, there is something for everyone on offer, including two dozen options across Northamptonshire.
Below are 24 eateries in Northamptonshire where kids eat free, or for a discounted price, during the summer holidays.
13. Marston's pubs
Marston's has several pubs across the county, including Park House and Trading Post in Kettering, Sunnyside and Cock Inn in Northampton, Spread Eagle in Corby and more. Kids eat for a £1 with a paying adult, Monday to Friday until August 29. Photo: Google
14. Morrisons Cafe
The supermarket chain is offering free kids meals, all day, everyday, with every adult meal over £5. Morrisons Cafes are located in Wellingborough, Victoria Promenade Northampton, Kettering and Corby. Photo: Google
15. Pausa cafes at Dunelm
Dunelm's cafes in Wellingborough and Kettering are offering a mini main, two yummy snacks and a drink for kids, as long as an adult has spent £4. The offer is running every day until the end of the school holidays. Photo: Google
16. Pizza Hut
Pizza Hut, which has branches in Sixfields, Wellingborough and Kettering, £1 kids buffet when £10 is spent on food. Offer valid until 3pm every day. Use code: KEF. Photo: Google