So, have you heard about the Pennsylvania restaurant that decided to put up a sign that says they won’t serve children younger than 6?
On the one hand I do get it, believe me there are nights when I just want to have a nice dinner without being distracted by children. On the rare occasion my husband and I get a night out, we might go to a restaurant we wouldn’t normally with the kids.
And there are definitely restaurants where I wouldn’t take my kids, where the atmosphere is fancier and more adult.
But from the photos online, this restaurant doesn’t look all that fancy. Apparently the number of complaints about out-of-control children led the owner to create the policy of not welcoming children younger than 6. It looks like it is just one room with tables, so maybe the sounds of crying children echoed, or children were running rampant.
I admit, my 2-year-old doesn’t always sit quietly through a whole meal. So usually one of us takes him for a walk or goes outside for a few minutes. We try to be considerate of those around us.
Honestly, I am offended. We like to go out to dinner too, and sometimes we go out with my parents or my husband’s parents and the kids as a family event. Usually, when I encounter people they remember what it was like when their children were little, and are pretty understanding if the kids get antsy.
I think it is too bad if parents aren’t being considerate of others, but it is a slippery slope, there was a comment on one article about hoping airlines would be next. So is that where we are headed? Airlines that prohibit children, adult-only train compartments, what’s next?
What about rude adults? What about a tableful of people who are loud and rowdy and out to have a good time? Are they an issue? Other people have commented about people who talk on their cell phones loudly being annoying as well.
The owner has done more than 50 interviews for publications around the world, apparently this has struck a chord. He says he has received many e-mails and letters, the majority in support of the new policy. And he reported business is up since the announcement.
Some online comments included telling parents to only take kids to kid-oriented restaurants.
Personally, I avoid Chuck E Cheese like the plague and don’t consider McDonalds or Wendy’s a night out for dinner.
I think it is too bad we can’t all be a little more understanding and considerate of each other regardless of the situation. I don’t think segregating kids is the answer.
