During a recent family getaway, I stumbled across a rather blunt sign that stated:
NO STROLLERS
NO HIGH CHAIRS
NO BOOSTER CHAIRS
A clear message, I thought. This establishment clearly isn’t welcoming to families with young children. However, beneath this overt declaration, there was an even more striking statement: “Children making noise are considered a distraction to other diners and are therefore not permitted in the dining area.”
At first, I assumed this was meant humorously. This restaurant was located in a bustling tourist zone, often filled with families and, naturally, children. Is it not common knowledge that kids can be a bit loud? And what about the adults? If we’re going to label distractions, perhaps the rowdy patrons causing a ruckus should be our first target, not those simply being kids.
As I took a photo of the sign, my daughter, Lily, read it aloud. “So they don’t want kids?” she asked, her brow furrowed in confusion. “Correct,” I replied. “Why?” she inquired. “Well, kids can be… noisy,” I explained. “And that’s a problem?” she asked, giggling at her own loud laugh, which echoed off the walls.
As we strolled away, I couldn’t shake off my annoyance. What about the tipsy adults who stagger through family-friendly spaces? Or those oblivious individuals who shove past toddlers to reach the restroom? And let’s not forget the boisterous parties that seem to think the world revolves around them, with their loud antics and inappropriate language within earshot of children. (Oops, that’s me sometimes—never mind that.)
I’m not advocating for my kids to be exempt from these ‘no kids’ policies, nor am I against them altogether. I recognize the reasoning behind them. Kids can undoubtedly disrupt the serene atmosphere that many diners desire. Just like not everyone wishes for children at their wedding, not everyone can tolerate a crying baby while savoring their meal. Honestly, I struggle to have a three-minute phone conversation without interruption from my children’s playful squabbles.
People seek a peaceful dining experience free from the chaos children can bring. And parents? We often yearn for a brief escape from our responsibilities, allowing us to enjoy our meals without interruptions from “Mo-om! He’s touching me!”
Yet, isn’t it somewhat hypocritical for places to declare children unwelcome? Kids can be a handful, no doubt—especially my own. But often, it’s the adults who are the real distractions. It’s not solely the rambunctious kids causing a scene; rather, it’s the parents who overlook their children’s misbehavior. It’s not just the whiny kids who disrupt a meal; it’s the adults who complain incessantly. It’s not the crying infants ruining the ambiance but the loud, glaring signs that exclude families from the fun.
If you choose to keep children out of your establishment, that’s perfectly acceptable, but there’s no need for rudeness—because ultimately, you might just be the distraction.
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In summary, while ‘no kids’ policies have their place, the manner in which they are enforced can often overshadow their intent. It’s crucial to remember that distractions can come from various sources, and kindness goes a long way.