The topic of children dining in restaurants continues to ignite passionate discussions. Some believe that kids have no place in such settings, while others are okay with families dining out, but only at specific venues. Often, the negative behavior of a few children impacts how families as a whole are perceived in public dining spaces.
Recently, popular online writer Sarah Bennett shared her frustrating experience at a restaurant while dining with her kids. Feeling scrutinized, she recounted how her children, unable to find a spot at the table to color, resorted to sitting on the floor in a corner. A waitress approached Sarah, stating that her kids were “not allowed to color on the floor.” When Sarah attempted to call her children back to the table, they repeatedly refused. It was at this moment that Sarah imagined the waitress deriving some satisfaction from her children’s defiance.
“While I kindly asked my kids to return to the table, they both said ‘no,’ and the waitress was practically glowing with delight at my predicament,” she humorously noted. “I even told them they’d miss out on ice cream if they didn’t comply, but they just ignored me. The chaos escalated when Billie snatched Arlo’s coloring book, leading to a hair-pulling, headlock situation. The waitress seemed almost thrilled to witness my struggle.”
Contrary to popular belief, waitstaff who appear slightly irritated by rowdy children are not simply grumpy individuals who dislike kids; they are professionals striving to do their jobs. Children running around and engaging in disruptive behavior can complicate their responsibilities. Most of the comments on Sarah’s post suggest that this type of behavior is to be expected from kids, but that viewpoint may be a bit of an overreaction.
As a mother who resonates with many, Sarah acknowledges the difficulties of dining out. She describes her experience at a family-friendly restaurant where the atmosphere is relaxed, and the staff encourages children to be themselves. “The staff at Jamie’s restaurant told me not to worry about controlling the kids and to just enjoy the evening,” she shared. While this may sound ideal, it’s crucial to recognize that family-friendly does not equate to a free-for-all. Such places typically offer kids’ menus and a lively ambiance, not an invitation for children to run rampant.
Yes, some servers can be a bit gruff. Dining with children can sometimes feel like a minefield, with the unspoken expectation that you’re just waiting for them to misbehave. However, there are acceptable boundaries in public spaces. Allowing children to wander and sit on the floor can pose safety hazards, especially when hot food is being served.
As both a former waitress and a current mom, I urge parents to keep their kids seated at the table. It’s essential for their safety and the comfort of the staff. Imagine having to navigate an obstacle course of children while trying to perform your job. It’s not an easy task.
“Waitstaff are incredible at their jobs, and I always make sure to clean up after my children and apologize for any misbehavior,” Sarah commented. “However, it’s vital for mothers to feel supported in society rather than marginalized and judged, to the point where they might prefer staying home.” While this sentiment rings true, it doesn’t justify a chaotic environment where children can behave however they wish. Dining out should be an opportunity to teach children appropriate behavior in public.
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In summary, while children dining in restaurants remains a contentious topic, it’s essential to strike a balance between allowing kids to be kids and maintaining a safe, respectful environment for all diners.