Parents handed their toddler the card to give the server after dinner — what he told the boy to write on the tip line made them leave 33% gratuity
Servers do their best to provide good service and ensure that they receive a generous tip. However, some fun tricks enhance the process. A Greenville waiter named Zachary Kahler, who goes by @zachkarykahler84, shared an adorable remark that left a family impressed, prompting them to tip 33%. In the TikTok video posted on August 23, 2026, the man mentioned how the parents handed their card to their toddler so he could participate in the payment process. The employee ensured that the experience was a lighthearted and memorable one.
@zacharykahler84 #server #serviceindustry #serverlife #bartender #servertiktok ♬ original sound - Zachary Kahler
Everything went well throughout the meal, and when it was time to pay, the parents gave their little boy the card to give to Kahler. When he saw the tiny tot bring it to him, he joked, “Oh, it’s on him tonight.” He then ran the card and made a remark while handing it back to the toddler. He looked at the boy and said, “Now think of the highest number you can think of and write it on the tip line.” His parents immediately chuckled. That simple interaction led them to tip $30 on a $90 bill, giving the evening a perfect ending. The waiter noted that the exchange seemed to work every time with such diners.
More than the joke, the parents likely noticed the friendliness Kahler displayed. He included the toddler in their conversations, treating him like the perfect little customer, while doing his job sincerely. Fellow hospitality workers agreed that this trick works like a charm. @bidididbumba said, “Always learn the kids’ names, always treat the kids like gold.” @_valp24_ suggested, “Ask the kids what they do for work.” @westmichiganpetgrooming confirmed, “As a parent, we love these types of servers. I will tip 50% every time we get a server who treats the kids like they matter too.”
A pleasant dining experience can leave a lasting impression on both employees and diners, beyond the value of a tip. So, the most important thing is to ensure that there is good interaction and service. Another waitress did just this when she waited on an exhausted mom and a toddler who was having a meltdown. The single mom explained that she went to Olive Garden to have a quiet meal, but her 18-month-old had other plans. After making noise and wiggling her way around, she got uncomfortable. The parent knew she wouldn’t be able to have her meal and didn’t want to disturb other guests. She asked the staff worker to pack her food to-go, but the waitress simply said, “No.”
“You’re going to go sit down and enjoy your dinner, and I will be there to sit with her!” she told the woman. The server went and brought some ice cream and distracted the toddler while the mom got to enjoy her meal while it was hot. While dining, the duo even had a heartwarming chat about their lives, sharing words of inspiration and support for each other. The simple understanding, followed by empathy and excellent service, gave the parent and the employee an experience to remember.
You can follow @zacharykahler84 on TikTok for more content on hospitality, serving, and lifestyle.