I know this is going to sound - mean. But why do parents bring little kids in to Starbucks? I'm not talking about rolling the stroller in, getting something and then leaving. I'm speaking of kids ages 2-6 who are brought in to 30 mins+ while their parents/friends, etc sit and gab. The kids go nuts and it's so irritating for those of us trying to talk, read, whatever. Parents, coffee places are NOT good for your kids.

http://www.bose.com/controller?event=VIEW_PRODUCT_PAGE_EVENT&product=qc2_headphones_index&pageName=/home_entertainment/headphones_headsets/index.jsp

On the other hand, no one is forcing you to go there to read/talk/hang out/do homework/study. While I agree that kids that age would do better in other settings, the parents have just as much right to enjoy sitting at Starbucks and you and the next guy.

I know this is going to sound - mean. But why do parents bring little kids in to Starbucks?

Believe or not it's not cause they are out to get you ;)

The kids go nuts and it's so irritating for those of us trying to talk, read, whatever.

Give them a nice, evil stare :)

On the other hand, no one is forcing you to go there to read/talk/hang out/do homework/study. While I agree that kids that age would do better in other settings, the parents have just as much right to enjoy sitting at Starbucks and you and the next guy.

But why do those parents have MORE rights than the OP? If their child's presence is disrupting other patrons they should be OBLIGATED to change the situation or leave. If the OP was running around the shop screaming and disturbing others they would be thrown out, why shouldnt the same hold true. Someone having a child does NOT give them the right to forget others have rights and trump them!

At one of the Starbucks I frequent, they actually have an area set up for the "little ones" - complete with mini-chairs, mini-table, and kid games. It IS annoying to have them there; thank goodness for the Ipod earbuds. Sometimes, though, I get too annoyed, and then I vote with my feet - I tell one of the employees that because of the "environment" I will be taking a short vacation from their store to another 'bucks. Wish I could make a permanent departure, but it's 3 minutes away, versus 15 for the next one.

why waste all your time and money in starbucks.. isn't real life so much more worth it ?

why waste all your time and money in starbucks.. isn't real life so much more worth it ?

I guess I'll have to wait until real life begins. Until then, I need a place to study that isn't too loud (dorms), and isn't too quiet (library). And the admission charge is very modest if all you get is the tea. It's free of obnoxious behavior 80% of the time.

I guess I'll have to wait until real life begins. Until then, I need a place to study that isn't too loud (dorms), and isn't too quiet (library). And the admission charge is very modest if all you get is the tea. It's free of obnoxious behavior 80% of the time.

What about a park? Provided that it's a fine day outside, that is. :)

why waste all your time and money in starbucks.. isn't real life so much more worth it ?

Exactly....

I had children specifically to annoy my child-hating, cat-loving, atheist sister-in-law and her hypocritical boy scout leader pedophile husband. That I can irritate so many others is just a bonus I guess. BTW, my kids have never been out of sight when Uncle Pervie is in town.

consider it payback for going to $tarbuck$

I used to be one of those people who got really angry at parents with out of control kids in public. Now that my friends are starting to have little ones I can appreciate a bit more how the parents are sometimes too exhausted to deal with the kids.

That said, I expect parents to make an attempt to entertain their kids at Starbucks, and recognize that they are irritating others. So bring your kids toys, books, pacifier, whatever. I don't mind overhearing a small bit of children chattering but a parent needs to take the kid outside if there is a tantrum brewing.

I guess I'll have to wait until real life begins. Until then, I need a place to study that isn't too loud (dorms), and isn't too quiet (library). And the admission charge is very modest if all you get is the tea. It's free of obnoxious behavior 80% of the time.


Just as irritatingly, when I go to Starbucks it can be hard to find a place to sit down because it's full of students who make one cup of tea last for hours...
And since when has a library been "too quiet" for studying?!?

This thread reminds me of an incident a few months ago at Starbucks. I was there with 2 other adults (moms of my son's classmates) and we were talking fairly quietly. The guy at the table behind us turned around and snarled "Would you three move?! I'm trying to work and I've got a deadline." One of the women I was with turned toward him and said "This is not your private office! You want silence, you leave!"

Fortnately before it could get any uglier. the Starbucks manager intervened then and pointed out to the first customer that his demand for silence in a public cafe was unreasonable and suggested that he work elsewhere.

In my area, it seems that too many cafe customers have come to think of coffee bars and bookstore cafes as their private turf and demand silence from others. I go there with friends, usually adults but sometimes a mix of adults and kids, and I'm sick of the demands for perfect quiet. Cafes are a casual, public space and one should not have to use opera house manners there.

I might also point out (according to my niece the barrista) that customers with kids tend to spend more money on food and stay a shorter time than the student/worker crowd, making the people with kids more valuable to the business than the guy with the laptop who buys one drink and ties up a table for 3 hours.

I know this is going to sound - mean. But why do parents bring little kids in to Starbucks? I'm not talking about rolling the stroller in, getting something and then leaving. I'm speaking of kids ages 2-6 who are brought in to 30 mins+ while their parents/friends, etc sit and gab. The kids go nuts and it's so irritating for those of us trying to talk, read, whatever. Parents, coffee places are NOT good for your kids.
Holy carp :td:

come one get a grip we are talking STARBUCKS not a 5 star restaurant with 7 course meals and 400$ bottles of wine

we are talking a COFFE SHOP ... Not even a good one, so next thing is why do parnets take kids to the public pool :confused:

I guess I'll have to wait until real life begins. Until then, I need a place to study that isn't too loud (dorms), and isn't too quiet (library). And the admission charge is very modest if all you get is the tea. It's free of obnoxious behavior 80% of the time.
That's why I liked studying at Borders or Barnes & Noble. Much more open atmosphere, has a cafe, and you can peruse magazines and books when taking a break from studying--kind of like a library without the deafening silence.

I think the problem is larger than just coffee shops. I can definately understand the OP's annoyance, in that coffee shops are places to have a chat, not baby sit the kids. But the problem is in the lack of control in general, that unfortunately is extending to 'starbucks'.

I blame it on the mothers. Doubly-offending is that it's hard to hit on them when they have their brats along. I mean I do have some scruples :D

I can definately understand the OP's annoyance, in that coffee shops are places to have a chat, not baby sit the kids.

Who makes the rules that we are supposed to live by in your fantasy world? I failed to notice the sign on the wall that said "No children allowed". It is common courtesy to manage your children in public. It is the right of a private business to decide who they will serve or not serve without discriminating against protected classes.

I continue to be be amazed at the degree to which some are bothered that they cannot completely control the environment in which they find themselves.

...I continue to be be amazed at the degree to which some are bothered that they cannot completely control the environment in which they find themselves.

Oh 'cmon! You aren't really surprised are you? Isn't it the very nature of man to control other men? :D

I think we just want the parents to control their brats. Da-dee, da-dee that's all folks!

Here's a litle something for the OP and those who would ban children from cafes to think about:

My niece the barista works in a bookstore cafe. Yesterday I stopped in to pick up a book for my son and I asked her boss, who ownes the business, what he thought about the issues discussed in this thread.

He said moms with young kids are very welcome because they spend money at his cafe. He keeps a basket of toys in the cafe for kids.

However, "laptop campers" are not - because they hurt his bottom line. He's started charging for WiFi to discourage the guys who come in with a computer and expect to tie up a table for 3 hours for the price of one coffee. And the owner really hates people who think his bookstore is a free library, take the magazines into the cafe to read and damage them so he can't sell them.

So maybe who decides about who belongs someplace is the business owner, not the people who feel themselves inconvenienced by paying customers.

But why do those parents have MORE rights than the OP? If their child's presence is disrupting other patrons they should be OBLIGATED to change the situation or leave. If the OP was running around the shop screaming and disturbing others they would be thrown out, why shouldnt the same hold true. Someone having a child does NOT give them the right to forget others have rights and trump them!


He never said they have MORE rights, just as many. I often go to the little bagel cafe not far from my house. I usually read while I am there and children don't bother me in the least. People really need to chill when it comes to children in public places. :rolleyes:

They don't belong at Starbucks. They belong on airplanes:

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?t=543802&page=1&pp=15

Mike

Coffee places aren't strip clubs or casino's kids have a right to be there every bit as much as an adult does. Secondly I think it's MORE considerate of a parent to bring there kids to starbucks then to a sitdown restraunt. In the past parents may have brought there kids to McDonalds, Starbucks is the a popular fastfood/to go place casual kinda place. Deal with it.

Coffee places aren't strip clubs or casino's kids have a right to be there every bit as much as an adult does. Secondly I think it's MORE considerate of a parent to bring there kids to starbucks then to a sitdown restraunt. In the past parents may have brought there kids to McDonalds, Starbucks is the a popular fastfood/to go place casual kinda place. Deal with it.


I definately agree Starbucks is a casual place. Everytime I go in there it has been semi-noisy with people chatting over coffee.

I think the problem is larger than just coffee shops. I can definately understand the OP's annoyance, in that coffee shops are places to have a chat, not baby sit the kids.
I agree. It's about time more people adopted the habit of the English aristocracy: children should be immediately escorted from the birthing suite (if not earlier) and sent out to boarding schools in remote locations until the age of majority. That way, there's no chance that others might face the unbearable trauma of running into them in a public place.

I think we just want the parents to control their brats. Da-dee, da-dee that's all folks!


Agreed, kids can't be expected on their own to understand the social environment their in- it is up to parents to make the effort.

I fall into both camps: sometimes I use Starbucks as a temporary workspace when I travel, and when home my 8-year old son loves their rice krispie bars.

It is absolutely true that when I am at my local Starbucks with my son, I spend a ton more than I do when I am alone at a Starbucks when on the road!!

That said, my son knows how to behave in public, and if he starts to get obnoxious I remind him of what the expectations are for behavior in public.

I know this is going to sound - mean. But why do parents bring little kids in to Starbucks? I'm not talking about rolling the stroller in, getting something and then leaving. I'm speaking of kids ages 2-6 who are brought in to 30 mins+ while their parents/friends, etc sit and gab. The kids go nuts and it's so irritating for those of us trying to talk, read, whatever. Parents, coffee places are NOT good for your kids.

Starbucks was a fastfood restaurant and not a library the last time I checked.

Starbucks was a fastfood restaurant and not a library the last time I checked.

Fastfood? I thought it was a coffee establishment.



BTW - to the person that started this thread..The annyoing, hyperactive "brats" are probably high on the smell of caffeine. Wait until they're old enough to drink it. You'd have something to complain about then. Doesn't your company supply an office for you (that's assuming you're employed in one of those kinds of jobs)?

I know this is going to sound - mean. But why do parents bring little kids in to Starbucks? I'm not talking about rolling the stroller in, getting something and then leaving. I'm speaking of kids ages 2-6 who are brought in to 30 mins+ while their parents/friends, etc sit and gab. The kids go nuts and it's so irritating for those of us trying to talk, read, whatever. Parents, coffee places are NOT good for your kids.Coffee places are NOT good for kids? :confused: Why not? What you mean is that kids aren't good for YOUR experience at Starbucks. ;) If that's the case, you've got a wallet. Patronize another business if you are unhappy with the way the managers of Strarbucks run their store.

The annyoing, hyperactive "brats" are probably high on the smell of caffeine.

Yes, and kids being so much smaller react strongly to chemical stimuli. Some people just have lower tolerance for noise than others when working, I for one couldn't get serious reading done in Starbucks- that's my shortcoming with concentration not the venues.

Fastfood? I thought it was a coffee establishment.

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/other_business/article/0,2777,DRMN_23916_4520318,00.html

Soon you won't be able to tell the difference between Starbucks and McDonalds.

Even without the food, a Starbucks Venti Java Chip Frappuccino has more calories (650) than a Big Mac, and almost as many grams of fat 25 v 33.

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/other_business/article/0,2777,DRMN_23916_4520318,00.html

Soon you won't be able to tell the difference between Starbucks and McDonalds.

Even without the food, a Starbucks Venti Java Chip Frappuccino has more calories (650) than a Big Mac, and almost as many grams of fat 25 v 33.


Now I see what you mean. Sorry. Keep Starbucks the way it is. They seem to be doing great even without the breakfast. That's just what this world needs. More people overloaded on fatty sandwiches and coffee. :rolleyes:

That said, my son knows how to behave in public, and if he starts to get obnoxious I remind him of what the expectations are for behavior in public.
I think that is the key point. Parents who parent, vs. parents who are afraid to parent.

I don't particularly like the seating at most Starbucks so even though I have iPass for the T-Mobile wifi, I never go there to sit. And I'm somebody who grew up in a restaurant and finds the noises of a Starbucks, Panera, Corner Bakery, etc. soothing when I'm working on something complicated.

I think that is the key point. Parents who parent, vs. parents who are afraid to parent.

Or parents who believe that letting their children behave in any manner they so choose IS parenting... :rolleyes:

I take my 2 and 6 year old to Starbucks - one gets hot cocoa and the other a chocolate milk while I enjoy my latte. Hmmm - seems like I drop about $10 to your $3.

Yes everyone has the right to expect not to have a kid screaming in their ear, but there are levels of that expectancy. 5* restaurant - no kids, Starbucks? Lots of 'em. You want quiet, choose the library (where you better believe my kids have to keep quiet) or choose another public domain where the expectancy of quiet is less.

Oh and here is an additional twist to this topic:

http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=local&id=3621486
http://www.plastic.com/comments.html;sid=05/11/10/09280566;cid=2

Personally, I wouldn't go to that establishment with my kids, but I might without them. I say bravo to that store owner for standing up for his convictions regardless of his bottom line. Heck, his bottom line might even flourish!

Coffee places are NOT good for kids? :confused: Why not? What you mean is that kids aren't good for YOUR experience at Starbucks. ;) If that's the case, you've got a wallet. Patronize another business if you are unhappy with the way the managers of Strarbucks run their store.



I agree with Analise completely, bit of course, Im a kid. lol.

Yes everyone has the right to expect not to have a kid screaming in their ear, but there are levels of that expectancy. 5* restaurant - no kids, Starbucks? Lots of 'em.

Exactly, it is all about the atmosphere and tone your paying for.

Personally, I wouldn't go to that establishment with my kids, but I might without them. I say bravo to that store owner for standing up for his convictions regardless of his bottom line. Heck, his bottom line might even flourish!

The Taste of Heaven story was all over the news a few months ago.

From the article you quoted:

"We put the sign [that children had to behave] up because we were losing business. People were walking out because they'd come in and there were kids running around screaming," said McCauley."

I simply don't patronize places where children are carrying on like that, and I know there are many more like me. McCauley would have lost my business permanently if he hadn't put his foot down.

You may spend $10 to my $3 (actually, it's about $6 at the Starbucks near my office -- Latte plus coffee cake). However, my office is a block away, and I'd go every day were it not for the zoo that the Starbucks has become. Example, the last time I went there (literally, the LAST time), some family came in with a couple of kids and a stroller, spread themselves out over one entire side of the store and made an horrendous racket. The last straw for me, however, was when the mother put the toddler on a the counter and let him walk around! I went over to the manager, who was watching obliviously, and told her that (1) because Starbucks apparently tolerated this behavior, I'd never be back, and (2) I was calling the Board of Health. This prompted her into action and she kicked the family out. Too little, too late, as far as I'm concerned. So, that $6 x 5 x 4.5= $135/month that I take to Briazz, rather than Starbucks, because it tolerates outrageous behavior by parents of out-of-control children.

If you followed the Taste of Heaven incident, you know there is a mighty backlash brewing, and I expect we're going to see all sorts of significant limits on where people can take their children. The fault, of course, is not all parents, nor are all kids problems. However, the, "I'll take my kid anywhere, so deal with it if he's bothering you," crowd have absolutely poisoned the air for more responsible parents.

why waste all your time and money in starbucks.. isn't real life so much more worth it ?

I think this is an excellent point.
It is very SAD that in the last 4-5 years, people in public (in anyplace) have gotten so comfortable with themselves and have lost most common courtesy and manners that they behave as if any public area is their own living room.
My wife and I (notice I wrote "I", not "myself", there, as "I" is proper English that we all learned in 2nd grade) were at Chicago O'Hare airport last month and while waiting for boarding we saw:

1. a man sloppily eating an entire fast-food meal at his seat
2. a woman in her mid-20s LYING on the floor on her stomach talking on
her cellphone.
3. about 40 percent of the people in the immedicate vicinity talking on
their phones at length

I think the days of courtesy are long GONE. Look at all the garbage on TV in the last several years - gee, let's GLAMOURIZE obnoxious and revolting behavior. Just what all the TV-addicted kids in the US need. They can't learn manners from their busy parents (most are too busy to provide that guidance - but some still do), so they learn to be intrusive, loud, and offensive from all the "celebrities" they watch on the boob tube.

As for babies crawling around on the floor or on counters in public places - this is just plain disgusting. Don't those parents know what people drag around on their shoes? You may as well allow the child to crawl around under the urinal in the toilet.

It also seems that some people are very uncomfortable when they are walking around and are NOT on the phone with someone.
If cell phones are allowed on planes we are looking at an absolutely HORRENDOUS environment while flying. Time to splurge for a ride on a private jet - expensive, yes, but at least you can retain your sanity!

I know this is going to sound - mean. But why do parents bring little kids in to Starbucks? I'm not talking about rolling the stroller in, getting something and then leaving. I'm speaking of kids ages 2-6 who are brought in to 30 mins+ while their parents/friends, etc sit and gab. The kids go nuts and it's so irritating for those of us trying to talk, read, whatever. Parents, coffee places are NOT good for your kids.


Why not offer them some coffee--that will calm them down :D

I continue to be be amazed at the degree to which some are bothered that they cannot completely control the environment in which they find themselves.Excellent point, but why does it make me want to start a thread about Homeowners' Associations (HOAs)? ;)

:mad: I know this is going to sound - mean. But why do parents bring little kids in to Starbucks? I'm not talking about rolling the stroller in, getting something and then leaving. I'm speaking of kids ages 2-6 who are brought in to 30 mins+ while their parents/friends, etc sit and gab. The kids go nuts and it's so irritating for those of us trying to talk, read, whatever. Parents, coffee places are NOT good for your kids.

Wow. Soon coffee places will NOT be good for anyone with the likes of your type around. Others have noted that no one group deserves preference in public places (not students, workers, childless folks, etc.) but I'm surprised noone is as outraged as I am by your post. I do believe Starbucks likes the business and goes out of its way to accomodate families and some people actually enjoy mingling with those that aren't exactly like them. Maybe it's YOU??

What irks me are the 9 and 10 year olds with their Starbucks cards and ordering their favorite frappuccinos...oh my !@#@!$ What are their parents thinking?? I once saw a girl who was no more than 10 years old, reloading her Starbucks card with a $5 dollar she probably got in allowance. It was hilarious but sad at the same time. Yeah the frappes taste good but caffeine intake should definitely be limited when they're young.

What irks me are the 9 and 10 year olds with their Starbucks cards and ordering their favorite frappuccinos...oh my !@#@!$ What are their parents thinking?? I once saw a girl who was no more than 10 years old, reloading her Starbucks card with a $5 dollar she probably got in allowance. It was hilarious but sad at the same time. Yeah the frappes taste good but caffeine intake should definitely be limited when they're young.

To be honest, I don't see a problem with this. Perhaps the parents gave the childt the 5 bucks and told them to budget their spend. Isn't it better to support a Starbucks sweet drink habit then some others that might happen when parents are not involved?

I asked the manager of my local Starbucks for his opinion on this thread, and his comment was: If children didn't belong, there wouldn't be snacks that are kid-targeted and kids-sized drinks available.

What irks me are the 9 and 10 year olds with their Starbucks cards and ordering their favorite frappuccinos...oh my !@#@!$ What are their parents thinking?? I once saw a girl who was no more than 10 years old, reloading her Starbucks card with a $5 dollar she probably got in allowance. It was hilarious but sad at the same time. Yeah the frappes taste good but caffeine intake should definitely be limited when they're young.
:rolleyes: If there was ever a true MYOB moment....

yes, some of these kids could get loud and annoying.

but, then again, some of the adults (a lot, actually) could get as loud and as annoying.

Little kids and coffee should not go together. Many of those "sweet drinks" are full of caffein. It's the responsibility of a parent to watch what their kids are eating. Yeah lovely, there are kids value meals at McDonald's...they aren't all that healthy. Once in awhile is fine but I wouldn't make a habit out of it...as with caffein...last time I checked it is addicting. And yes I did mind my own business and didn't say anything to the parents.

I am fully in agreement that anyone of any age should be allowed in places like Starbucks. Restricting them is nonsense. I wish I could get my dog in as well :) Tell your Starbucks friends to start selling doggie treats :D

I failed to notice the sign on the wall that said "No children allowed".

I got a kick out of an actual sign on the wall at a coffee place on the North Shore of Oahu which said:

"Unattended children will be given a shot of espresso and a free puppy."

:)

Strangely enough, there were no children in the establishment!

Little kids and coffee should not go together. Many of those "sweet drinks" are full of caffein. It's the responsibility of a parent to watch what their kids are eating. Yeah lovely, there are kids value meals at McDonald's...they aren't all that healthy. Once in awhile is fine but I wouldn't make a habit out of it...as with caffein...last time I checked it is addicting. And yes I did mind my own business and didn't say anything to the parents.

I am fully in agreement that anyone of any age should be allowed in places like Starbucks. Restricting them is nonsense. I wish I could get my dog in as well :) Tell your Starbucks friends to start selling doggie treats :D

Hmm, so there is no caffeine in Coke, Pepsi, Dr Pepper of Mountain Dew?

Passed along your suggestion re doggie treats...he said he would be happy to if only the local health authorities would permit... :D

I don't promote Coke, Pepsi, etc. for little kids...just like coffee :D

While Starbucks may be irritating, the parents playing stroller derby in brewpubs and bars is what really bothers me.

Little kids and coffee should not go together. Many of those "sweet drinks" are full of caffein. It's the responsibility of a parent to watch what their kids are eating. Yeah lovely, there are kids value meals at McDonald's...they aren't all that healthy. Once in awhile is fine but I wouldn't make a habit out of it...as with caffein...last time I checked it is addicting. And yes I did mind my own business and didn't say anything to the parents.

First of all, a "a girl who was no more than 10 years old" (from your previous post) is not a little kid, and looks can be very deceiving as to age.

It does seem as if you are making quite a few other questionable assumptions, too. How do you know how often this girl drinks caffeinated beverages? You mention you saw her once, on that you base a criticism of her parents? :rolleyes: Starbucks does sell drinks that don't contain caffeine, too, you know, and some adolescents, just like adults, like hang out there in the company of their friends.

Were you aware that caffeine is now part of some treatment regimens for ADHD and asthma?

As for caffeine being addictive: I just did a google search on that subject, and it seems as there is a lot of discussion on that subject, but no consensus.

While Starbucks may be irritating, the parents playing stroller derby in brewpubs and bars is what really bothers me.
Okay, this one I'll agree with. Babies and toddlers do not belong in bars or other places whose primary purpose is to sell alcohol. They're not old enough to enjoy it. :D

...I ran in to a family at one of the Mercer Island Starbucks a couple of weeks ago. The family of four had taken up three tables - and didn't think there was anything wrong with it. They had a bassinette on one large table, the father was reading the paper at another table - meant for four - all sprawled out, and the mother and another small kid were at a table for two. Just oblivious that it was Saturday morning, the place was booming with customers; and people were looking for a place to sit down.

...I ran in to a family at one of the Mercer Island Starbucks a couple of weeks ago. The family of four had taken up three tables - and didn't think there was anything wrong with it. They had a bassinette on one large table, the father was reading the paper at another table - meant for four - all sprawled out, and the mother and another small kid were at a table for two. Just oblivious that it was Saturday morning, the place was booming with customers; and people were looking for a place to sit down.

The guy was an oaf. I'm not sure it had anything to do with the kids, but they'll probably grow up to be oafs too.

For whatever reason, maybe because I helped raise 4 kids, I always find myself drawn to the many child-bashing and parent-bashing posts on FT.

This one is becoming typical, although it remains much more civil than some. There are the obligatory "pets are better than kids" posts, the "other people are raising their children incorrectly" posts, the "but, I'm raising my kids properly" posts and the "all kids should be institutionalized and kept away from me" posts by the time they have run their course. We seem to repeat the same things and no one seems to change sides or opinions. Mind you, I'm not complaining, because I like a good disagreement just as much as the next person. But, maybe we could take a rest and think up some fresh views.

I wish I could get my dog in as well :) Tell your Starbucks friends to start selling doggie treats :D

come to Germany. They'd let you take your dog anywhere! seriously

But, maybe we could take a rest and think up some fresh views.

Maybe it would be best if everyone tries to stick to the topic and argue objectively.`My two cents.

For whatever reason, maybe because I helped raise 4 kids, I always find myself drawn to the many child-bashing and parent-bashing posts on FT.

As a parent of three and a grandparent of three (who have all flown on our points but the grandkids probably haven't yet visited a Starbucks) I agree with your sentiments.

You might get more satisfaction launching a counter-strike, as I once did in an anti-kids thread when I satirically advocated banning the elderly from planes (they walk so slowly, they ask stupid questions, etc.). Boy, did I get some indignant responses, which I suppose made me somewhat troll-like. :D

Sort of like...

Personally, I think "singles" should not be allowed to sit at tables for two at Starbucks.

Furthermore, there should be separate lines for people who just want coffee rather than those time consuming froo-froo beverages, and there should be an Elite line for those holding Starbucks cards.

IMHO ;)

BamaVol, I agree that no one's going to budge on their beliefs :D

MY own thoughts are that 10 years old...is still a little kid.
Limiting coffee, coke...for kids is a good thing.

I never said adolescents, kids whatever should be kept out of Starbucks. My thoughts were that if I see a little girl come into Starbucks by herself to reload up a Starbucks card and purchase a frappuccino (coffee blended), then yeah I will be surprised and have an opinion of the parents. Some people will have opinions that the parents raised her right to be so independent and to have early values about money. Some like me will have other opinions as well.

Sorry I didn't know that caffeine was used for some medical treatments but I'm not surprised...was there a point to this other than to enlighten me about the treatment? Light up some hash because it's been said they have medical benefits, cool. I highly doubt the girl was purchasing her drink for her asthma. As for assumptions, aren't we both making them..just opposite assumptions.

pinayexpat, sounds great! I'd love to take both my dog and kid to Starbucks (yeah I'm assuming Starbucks is there in Germany, they're everywhere :p ) and you're right I regret getting off topic from the original post. I love kids and Starbucks, individually as well as together. Just my 2 cents. :cool:

Unlike to stores in the US in Europe Starbucks Coffees are just some of the little complete smoke free places. And that is - at least here in Vienna, Austria - one of the main reasons for parents to hang out with their kids at Starbucks. I like that - as long they are not too wild and oud.[

Hmm, so there is no caffeine in Coke, Pepsi, Dr Pepper of Mountain Dew?

Passed along your suggestion re doggie treats...he said he would be happy to if only the local health authorities would permit... :D
I was raised on Coca Cola, Dr. Pepper, Coffee and Tea. On a trip to Ireland I spent quite a bit of time with a local couple who were in TOTAL SHOCK that I would let my children drink the same drinks. After a LOT of discussion, I started to rethink my thoughts on the matter and did a lot of research. So I stopped buying the drinks for my children (with the exception of tea). We have noticed a marked improvement in their study habits and their general attitudes. They no longer ask for the drinks when given the opportunity. My only regrets are that I should have been raised the same way and I wish I had met the couple in Ireland before my first born was one year old. What benefits could have been attained? ;)

I take my 2 and 6 year old to Starbucks - one gets hot cocoa and the other a chocolate milk while I enjoy my latte. Hmmm - seems like I drop about $10 to your $3.

Yes everyone has the right to expect not to have a kid screaming in their ear, but there are levels of that expectancy. 5* restaurant - no kids, Starbucks? Lots of 'em. You want quiet, choose the library (where you better believe my kids have to keep quiet) or choose another public domain where the expectancy of quiet is less.


Thanks for proving once again, that in the USA "it's all about me." No doubt you are passing that wonderful wisdom along to your kids.

It seems pretty clear that most people (with the exception of a few extremists) don't mind if you bring your children to Starbucks - what we object to are the screaming out-of-control brats who disrupt the otherwise pleasant atmosphere for everyone else. Just as bad as the people who scream into their cellphones.

So feel free to bring your kids if they are generally well-behaved (and you know if they fall in that category). But if they throw a tantrum, then you need to pack up and leave, along with the guy who is yelling into the cellphone behind you.

Common courtesy goes a long way these days. Alas, it seems many parents missed that lesson.

So feel free to bring your kids if they are generally well-behaved (and you know if they fall in that category). But if they throw a tantrum, then you need to pack up and leave, along with the guy who is yelling into the cellphone behind you.

IMHO many if not most folks with kids who get noisy are more concerned than that guy who is yelling into the cellphone behind you.

Just an observation... :)

Common courtesy goes a long way these days. Alas, it seems many parents missed that lesson.
If you think parents are lacking in common courtesy, try spending some time in public with a well behaved child and see how much gratuitous rudeness you experience. Many adults act as if it perfectly acceptable to say nasty things to kids who are minding their own business, kids standing in line often get shoved aside and adults who would probably hold a door open for another adult will let it swing shut in a child's face.

These aren't rare occurrences, and nor are they unique to our family. I was talking to a friend a couple states away earlier this week, and she told me of a jerk at the library who deliberately shut a door on her 8 year old son's hand. And airports are the worst place, as there are far too many of the self-important sort of traveler who shoves through crowds talking on their cell phone and swinging a shoulder bag/briefcase/laptop bag around - right at the height of kid's heads.

Perhaps it is time a few adults started remembering that kids deserve a little courtesy, too.

If you think parents are lacking in common courtesy, try spending some time in public with a well behaved child and see how much gratuitous rudeness you experience. Many adults act as if it perfectly acceptable to say nasty things to kids who are minding their own business, kids standing in line often get shoved aside and adults who would probably hold a door open for another adult will let it swing shut in a child's face.

These aren't rare occurrences, and nor are they unique to our family. I was talking to a friend a couple states away earlier this week, and she told me of a jerk at the library who deliberately shut a door on her 8 year old son's hand. And airports are the worst place, as there are far too many of the self-important sort of traveler who shoves through crowds talking on their cell phone and swinging a shoulder bag/briefcase/laptop bag around - right at the height of kid's heads.

Perhaps it is time a few adults started remembering that kids deserve a little courtesy, too.Those self absorbed adults yapping loudly on their cell phones as they knock children over with their shoulder bags/computer bags are not discriminating against children. They are also knocking over adults especially senior citizens. It is people like that who need to have the TSA cart them off indefinitely. ^

Funny - I can usually "tune out" all but the most obnoxious screaming, thrashing brats, as well as most obnoxious, cellphone-screaming rude adults. What REALLY bugs me is anyone who sings out loud when they hear a song that they recognize, coming over the Muzak system ...

What benefits could have been attained? ;)

Oh, the possibilities are endless! :)

come to Germany. They'd let you take your dog anywhere! seriouslyYou can have that right here in New York. I just wish these women (yes it's always women) get REAL dogs, not these kind which are so small, they can be carried in a Burberry dog bag. Those dogs seems like bait to real dogs like rottweilers.

I have never experienced unruly children in a Starbucks but I do not usually linger when I purchase a coffee. What bothers me is when you literally can not get into a Starbucks at the mall because there is a line a teenagers all the way out the door. I wish there was an "over 18" line. Those teenagers certainly spend a lot more money in Starbucks than I do so I understand. It just seems wrong that adults will skip the coffee so that the kids can partake. I refuse to stand in line for coffee more than 5 minutes. Don't we give up enough for our kids that we should get first dibbs on the coffee!

Dateline: Saturday at our local Starbucks

I needed to use the restroom. I went around the corner and passed the 5 women in line for the ladies' room.

The 2 ladies at the front of the line began giggling. I opened the men's room door, and there sits a lady who yells, "I am in here!" Oh, i guess I should've guessed that a women was using the men's room.

She came out EXTREMELY unhappy. She yelled at her friends saying that she could not believe they let a man in there. I stirred the pot by adding that they told me to head right on in.

The embarrassed women then told me, "I am sure you saw something. Give me $20." I told her that her modesty was intact.

My wife (Vker) said I should have told her the view was only worth $5. :)

I wish there was an "over 18" line. Those teenagers certainly spend a lot more money in Starbucks than I do so I understand. It just seems wrong that adults will skip the coffee so that the kids can partake. I refuse to stand in line for coffee more than 5 minutes. Don't we give up enough for our kids that we should get first dibbs on the coffee!

Over 18" line? I hope everyone there would fit in that line. After all I don't meet too many people that are less than one and a half feet tall.

Kids really should not be drinking coffee, but that is the same for adults that over drink.

Good then you will improve your health due to your impatience.

hmmmmmmmmm. :cool:

Dateline: Saturday at our local Starbucks

I needed to use the restroom. I went around the corner and passed the 5 women in line for the ladies' room.

The 2 ladies at the front of the line began giggling. I opened the men's room door, and there sits a lady who yells, "I am in here!" Oh, i guess I should've guessed that a women was using the men's room.

She came out EXTREMELY unhappy. She yelled at her friends saying that she could not believe they let a man in there. I stirred the pot by adding that they told me to head right on in.

The embarrassed women then told me, "I am sure you saw something. Give me $20." I told her that her modesty was intact.

My wife (Vker) said I should have told her the view was only worth $5. :)
Would have been better to reply "I think you should pay me $50.00 for emotional distress" :D

Would have been better to reply "I think you should pay me $50.00 for emotional distress" :D


YOU ARE CORRECT!