Soft drinks are being removed from Applebee's and IHOP children's menus, the owner of the restaurant chains says.

"We believe this is a small step in assisting parents while dining out, as parents are in the best position to determine the appropriate food and beverage choices for their children," DineEquity spokesman Craig Hoffman said in a statement, ABC News reported.

However, soft drinks will still be available for children whose parents order the beverages, the company said.

A growing number of restaurant chains are taking soft drinks off their children's menus, including Burger King, Dairy Queen, McDonald's, and Wendy's, ABC News reported.