Originally Posted by
WillCAD
There SHOULD be a time in children's lives when they won't go out to eat (except at places that cater to children like Chuck-E-Cheese and various fast food establishments), because they are not yet properly trained in table manners.
I don't disagree - and this is the reason we generally don't bring our children to fine dining establishments. But I don't want to fill this thread with child v. no-child rants.
The issue here is what to do when you encounter this situation (as you inevitably will) not what you think parents should do or whether they should be dining out. That bridge has already been crossed.
Originally Posted by
Yahillwe
+1
How about delivery? Then you could eat in the comfort of your home and kids can be kids at home where they aren't disturbing anyone.
Funny you should mention that - we do an awful lot of takeout/deliver as we find that less stressful. But there are occasions (don't we all travel here?!) when that is simply not possible. So the question is what to do when you find other people's children disturbing your peace.
The issue is often about babies, and if babies are likely to make a din then perhaps it is fairer not to eat out except when unavoidable?
Believe it or not, but babies are often easier than 3-4 year olds. We used to bring our baby to dinner all the time - he would sleep in his carseat and if he woke up we would hand him a milk bottle. 3-4 year olds lack impulse control, and can't be stifled with a bottle.