It's not that I'm against them; I think they are interesting, fun, funny, and definitely have a purpose in our world. In fact, our neighbors have a brand new one and I cannot wait to see it. There are people who prefer to maintain their distance, while others see no problem with taking them anywhere and everywhere. And that is where the awkwardness comes in.
Have you figured out what it is I'm referring to yet? It's kids, of course. Twice in the past week I have heard of situations that went sideways because of little people. The first took place at a concert; friends were looking forward to relaxing and hearing the music of a specific band, arriving in time to secure a front row table. It was a bar atmosphere, alcohol was being served, and according to my friend, it was in no way appropriate for children. Yet there were a number of kids running back and forth in front of the stage (and my friends' seats), stomping feet, dancing to the music - obviously enjoying themselves immensely. Regardless of anything said to the parents, the kids made their presence so well known that my friends ended up leaving, frustrated and annoyed that their experience was ruined by others. The second situation was actually part of a conversation I had with the proprietor of a local coffee house. It's a great place to meet with business colleagues and friends, quietly get work done on your own, or just sit and relax over a beverage and/or snack, especially now that we are enjoying sunny days and the patio is open. Kids are welcome here, especially when they are polite, courteous of other patrons (ie. not yelling or throwing things) and under the control of an adult. Unfortunately, what is seen most often are kids wandering around on their own, playing on the floor (I think of people stepping over them while carrying hot beverages and cringe), being very noisy, and even breaking things, all while their parents are engaged in conversation or sitting, head down, oblivious to anything but their smart phones. What is a business to do? It's something of a tight rope walk when it comes to finding balance; keeping non-kid patrons satisfied and comfortable, meeting the needs of those accompanied by children, and still running a profitable business. Rather than pointing fingers, I would suggest that everyone make an effort at creating a harmonious environment. 1. If you are feeling bothered/irritated/frustrated by kids in your near vicinity, stop for a moment; are they really out of line, or are you just thinking "Kids!" and assuming the worst? If there truly is an issue, ask the adult(s) for their assistance. "May I ask for your help? I'm here for a meeting/conversation/to get some work done and I'm having trouble concentrating. Do you think your child could sit on the other side of the table/talk a little softer/stop running into my chair?" If yes, great. If not, then approach the proprietor for help, move yourself, put up with it, or leave. While this may not be fair - you aren't the person causing the disruption, remember you can only control your own actions. 2. As a parent/adult, remember that "Family Friendly" does not mean "Free to Run" or "Family Free-For-All". Taking kids out in public means maintaining control; allowing them to do as they please while you are occupied with your activities is not only inconsiderate of others, it is just plain rude. Consider the location, consider the event, consider who else will be there, and act accordingly -- and if someone asks for your "help" with quieting your child, don't take offense, take action. 3. As a proprietor, be pro-active and set the tone for your establishment. If you are hosting an event and promote it as "family friendly", then have things for families with kids to enjoy; don't use it as a way to bring in more people and therefore, more money.
Would posting a sign -- "This is not a playground; kids must be seated" -- help? Don't wait until someone is complaining; if you see kids running loose or making "extra" noise, ask that they quiet down. Yes, you may risk offending a parent, but you will make a fan out of those in the vicinity, perhaps even at the same table.
It's not a question of liking or disliking children; it's a matter of courtesy. |
