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.
17. Premier Inn
Until September 1, kids eat free at Premier Inn's breakfast. Two kids under the age of 16 can eat free, per paying adult. Premier Inn has branches in Northampton, Kettering and Corby. Photo: Google
18. Prezzo
The Italian chain, which has branches in Kettering and Northampton town centres, will offer kids up to the age of 12 a three course meal every day until September 5, with a full paying adult. Parents will need to fill out a form on the Prezzo website to receive the voucher. Photo: Google
19. Sizzling pubs
The pub chain, responsible for The Priory in Wellingborough, The Collingtree in Northampton and The Briars in Kettering, is offering £1 kids mains with the purchase of an adult main. The offer in available from 3pm to 7pm, Monday to Friday, until August 29. Photo: Google
20. Subway
The sandwich shop, which has branches across Northamptonshire, is offering one free kids meal (4” Sub, snack, and drink) with the purchase of any footlong sub. The offer is available until August 17. Photo: Scott Olson