Please don't be mad at me...

[npall]

I am not trying to start anything just want to get other's opinions..

I have run across some postings from people making comments about young children and what I consider normal toddler behavior.. like fidgeting, laughing, talking.

I guess it started bothering me because the other day we went to HOPS ( like a TGI Fridays) at 2:30pm on a Sat. Of course we had our ds (2) with us. We sat in the booth and yes he is a very active child..When we go out to eat we let him sit in the booth with us and then when the food comes we sit him in the high chair, so he doesn't feel strapped in for 2 hours..

There was an older couple in the booth behind us and my son was not screaming, yelling,, but he was walking in the booth and they called the waiter over and asked to be moved (which was fine with us) but then before they moved they looked at us and said "You really should control his behavior!"
My son was not doing anything loud or outrageous...

Before anyone gets their guns out..I am a mom that doesn't go to restaraunts at night for this very reason, I don't do fine dining, I would never think about aking him with me to an adult movie (like I have seen other parents do.) and I do dicipline him when he gets carried away..

but to me no one can expect a toddler to sit quietly and listen to adult concersation for 2 hours, they need to move around and since I doj't want to let him loose in the rest. the booth seemd the best thing..

Okay now for the cruise part..why would someone get upset or roll their eyes when they see a family with young "fidgety kids" Gimme a break your on a DISNEY CRUISE! Are we supposed to a. drop our kids in the nursery for every activity or show b. lock ourselves in our rooms with them.

We do the best we can but kids under 3 are hard and they find it difficult to sit still...so have patience with us and if you don't like kids at all. Don't go on a DISNEY CRUISE!!!!!!

Thanks for letting me vent!

Naomi

[SC Minnie]

I think what most people have a problem with is kids running around without parental supervision. There have been posts where parents have seen their kids hit or knocked down by another child with no parent around to correct the 'problem' child.

As for the restaurants I think they try to have the people with younger kids in the early seating. But if you do get the late seating your child will not be the only one there. The servers do an excellant job of bringing the children's food out quickly if requested. There is also crayons and a paper menu for the kids to occupy themselves a little.

Normal toddler behavior is expected and I don't have a problem with it. Everyone with children has 'been there done that'.

[BuzznBelle'smom]

Npall, you make a very valid point. Any child at that age who sits perfectly still during an entire meal would make me wonder what drugs his parents feed him. We witnessed a similar thing in Olde Country Buffet, where a couple was complaining that they were sitting near kids--what do they want in a FAMILY restaurant? But I think most people can appreciate the difference between an active child and one who is overtired, cranky, whatever, and the parents ignore him. We have seen both sides of this--vacations with people who simply ignore their children's cues. In one classic case, on Day 5 of a WDW trip, one child threw up at dinner because she had been pushed so hard to keep up with the family's "schedule" (she was too big for a stroller). At the SAME MEAL, 2 total strangers at the next table complimented DH and I on how well-behaved and charming our kids were. Buzz was 2 at the time, and I guarantee, had Buzz been overtired, these same gentlemen would have moved to another table...preferably in a different hotel! So, keep the faith, most people are understanding on this!

[Samsma]

Npall,

Well said. The people that can't relate to normal, not obnoxious, child behavior have either never had kids, or must have had perfect angels. If anything, when I see a kid misbehaving I feel sorry for the parent, if they are at least trying to correct them. We've all been there. Its only those that ignore their behavior at the expense of others that get on my nerves.

[atigeg]

Your reference to "rolling eyes when you see fidgety kids" sounds like a direct quote from my post about the theater (when a big family sat down next to us). It would be ironic if you were using us as an example of people who do not like to be around children or who do not understand their behavior beccause I am an ardent defender of the kids in many of my posts (as well as a veteran of 21 Disney cruises...actually, I hate kids and just like to torture myself :rolleyes: ).
I always jump in when adults compain about having a kid at their table to point out that, in the very few times this has happened to us, it has always been a great experience. We had one little 4-year-old girl at our table once who was an absolute delight! I loved to hear her explaining her day and all the exciting things she did. I have been known to hang out at the family beach rather than the adult one, right in the midst of the "action," because sometimes I prefer that. The eye-rolling was because, in a 90 percent empty theater, they chose to sit right next to us (and the point of my post was that they were actually very well behaved).
Having said that, I am always amazed that people are surprised to find kids on a Disney cruise. And of course they are going to run around, laugh yell, and be wild...it's what kids do. I am continually amazed that people often expect them to act like little adults. They'll be grown up soon enough...for goodness sakes, let them enjoy it while they can! I have done counseling with kids, and I won't even go into some of the horrific things I've seen (not to mention the parents who put their own priorities before those of their families...if you choose to have children, you should be read for that commitment).
As to the booth, that would have bothered me if the child was bumping the booth, staring over at me, or otherwise interferring with me. I like to live by the creed "Do what you want, unless it is having a negagtive impact on someone else." Hard to tell if it was really bumping and bugging them or if they were just cranks.
Barb
Visit the Platinum Castaway Club at: www.*****************

[RIDISNEYLOVERS]

I have a 2 1/2 year old and she is very active. My DH and I love to go out to eat on the weekends (this is the only time that we usually get to go out to dinner) and it is very hard to keep them entertained and in their seat for approximately 2 hours - longer if you have to wait to be seated!! We usually try to get a table or booth in a corner so she can have some "freedom" to roam, but not to run around the restaurant. We know the times that she is tired and when she naps so we do not go out during that time. I am happy to hear that we are not the only ones that face this - I think every family with toddlers do.

Don't worry about what other people think, they are not in the moment and they probably forgot what it was like raising kids or may never have had any.

Lisa

[npall]

Barb: being a frequent visitor to your website and seeing alot of your posts here I know that you are a defender of kids most of the time..

and yes the rolling of the eyes comment was about your post..(just being honest) it still bothered me because my thought process was as first they went to the matinee which I would've done instead of trying to take a tired, over stimulated child in the evening times.. second sure the theater was empty but most kids run to the fron of anything (line, seat..) just to get closer so they probably did this automatically.. third. if everyone felt like "I hope they don't sit next to us" families wouldn't sit anywhere...
Also a 2 year old and a 4 year old is a BIG jump in behavior..My nephew is almost four and the difference between him and my ds are HUGE! A four year old's attention span is alot longer.

Probably in the walking he may have been bumping the booth..if it were the other way around I would've probably turned around and made funny faces at the kids..
The thing that I don't understand is the lack of sympathy for parents with yound kids so maybe he was bumping the booth..so what ? Is that really going to kill you or ruin your quality of life for 30 minutes until the food comes out and we sit him in his high chair ? This place was one step up from a fast food place... are we suppose to go only to places that have a playland ?
I agree with you whole heartly about the committment part. I left a very great career Sept of last year (ds was 16 months old) to be a SAHM.

Samsma and Buzz: I agree that the parent's need to do their part to make the kids behavior better..Over tired, cranky kids shouldn't be taken to a sit down meal. Example of this was yesterday as a matter of fact, my dh and I cancelled going to Olive Garden because ds was not very happy after an afternoon in the sun...
Thank you for understanding my point...I too feel sorry for the parents when the kids are acting up...

Naomi

[npall]

we usually only go to dinner on weekends and try to do it before 6pm. We try to get a corner table to and ds is very good about just staying right in our area...the moment he wanders he gets put back in the high chair for the remainder of the time...

Thanks for your support and encouragement..I guess sometimes us moms of tots need to hear that others in our situation our out there...

Thanks again:
Naomi

[pal2pluto]

Ten years ago, dh and I had a wonderful little girl....compliant and easy-going. Many times we would go somewhere with her and she would be so happy to just read a book at the table, while we saw families with their "unruly" kids....usually boys...trying to control them, or ignoring them. "That kid just needs a good swat!" We were the experts.....look at our precious daughter!

Two years ago, dh and I had a wonderful little boy......with a voracious appetite for excitement and movement. In restaurants, he will sit for a little while in a high chair....but when he hits his wall......"check please!". We were at a Wendy's just yesterday, and he was happily making his way to the table alone while I watched. And then I heard it......"he needs to be controlled, maybe a firm hand (she's not able to control him, you know)." The comments always hurt....and are meant to!

Well, what goes around, comes around. Maybe not their kids, but maybe their grandkids, and then they will remember and not judge. I know, I was there. My son loves life and is happy to show it. Gosh I love my kids!

[npall]

pal2pluto: LOL you reminded me of our own "story" When I was 19 years old I was told I would never have children due to some serious medical problems in my reproductive system...

When I met my husband three years later I told him right off the back because he was 9 years my senior and was already settled and ready for kids...
He told me he loved only me and that it didn't matter..so here we are two business people going out to nice dinner every night and enjoying vacations..Everytime we ran into normal behaving toddlers we would say like you " They need a good spanking.." Or "I can't believe that mom..or dad.."

Well a month before our wedding I went through a medical procedure. We got married on July 31st...

2 months later I found out I was seven weeks pregnant...Guess what ? I got a beautiful but active boy who's idea of sitting still is wiggling in and out of his chair..LOL!!!

Needless to say we don't EVER make those comments again and actually have offered to help those moms by carrying something or helping with the stroller why they get a handle on their little one...

Naomi

[RIDISNEYLOVERS]

npall:


God sure does work miracles!!

God's greatest gift to us is a baby so enjoy EVERY MINUTE - even when he is fidgety and possibly getting on your nerves (and maybe everyone else's)!! My mom always tells me to enjoy them because they will be grown before you know it!!

Lisa

[BuzznBelle'smom]

npall--Congrats on your healthy, active son! Doesn't God work in funny ways? We've been through the wringer with Buzz, medically. Now he's a normal little boy, and he's loud, messy, charming, snuggly, you name it! Half the time I'm praying for his safety, the other half I could kill him myself! But I wouldn't trade him for the world:D

[npall]

I feel the exact same way about Aram..it's funny for the first 6 months of his life I was in awe of him because I couldn't believe he was really mine..and now at almost 2 I am still in awe of him but have my moments when I say "Does he have to be mine..?" LOL

He is so funny..just the other day I stubbed my toe and he came over and said "Mama hurt..hug" and then gives me a hug afterwards he said "All better.."

Just melts your heart..and keeps you sane for those moments at restaurants...

[grlzmom]

Being a mom to five wonderful little girls we are often the subject of scrutiny when out in public.

That aside, if a restaurant has a kids menu I think (my opinion here) that means kids are welcome :) We eat out all the time, use our manners, tip well and are very considerate of other diners whether they be with or without kiddos. I am also the first to get up and take my little squiggler out for a walk.

We are so looking forward to enjoying our disney cruise, kiddos and all and of course they will mind their manners when they should. And, they will giggle, laugh and have a good time when appropriate too :) We will be taking the whole gang to dinners and shows (that's why we are cruising Disney, not for the nursery, etc).

I can certainly understand those who are cruising without kiddos and dont want to spend their meals with the "crayon gang". In reverse, we feel the same way. It is way too uncomfortable for our large family to sit through meals for a week with the non kiddo bunch. Just not much in common :)


grlzmom

[fortwilderness]

First of all, I don't have kids yet but I hope to have a couple of my own someday -

But the number one thing that drives me crazy in restaurants is when parents let their kids run around and bounce around in booths. And quite frankly, it isn't the kids doing it that makes me upset - it is the parents that let them do it. I realize that not everyone would be annoyed by a child running around and bumping on the back of their seat for 30 minutes while they are trying to eat but I would guess that the majority of people would be.

It actually makes me feel physically ill when I am being bumped and bounced from behind when I am trying to eat. I can totally understand why the couple moved although I do think that their comment to you was quite rude. If they were already eating when you sat down your son may have been making one of them feel ill. If they were not eating yet they may have just wanted to prevent being bumped around when their food did come out.

You say that "so maybe he was bumping the booth..so what ? Is that really going to kill you or ruin your quality of life for 30 minutes until the food comes out and we sit him in his high chair ?" Well, at a place like TGI Friday's 30 minutes is around the time it takes to eat lunch so maybe he would have ruined their entire lunch. How fair is that ? Plus how were they to know that you were going to put him in the highchair later ? I am not defending the rude couple but just thinking about how I would have reacted in the situation.

I don't care if kids whine, talk, stare, make faces at me, throw food -just so it doesn't hit me :) - wonder around a little on the floor, ect. because I understand that is just how it is when you have kids. Good grief -I can even relate to BuzznBelle'smom throwing up example because that is exactly what I did on my first trip to WDW at age 3. I threw up right in my plate at breakfast one morning and my mom says that she thought that the poor server was going to faint :D

[BuzznBelle'smom]

fortwilderness, Thank you for your candor, and I just want to let you know that, as a mom, I agree with you 110% in both areas. First off, I too, get physically ill if I get bumped, etc. while eating. I would have perhaps asked the family (very politely) if this could be stopped. If that didn't work, I would move without saying anything further. But as far as obnoxious kids go, it's actually worse when you're a parent. If (childless) you are having a pleasant meal and encounter an unruly child, you're annoyed, but it ends. I'm stuck with my kis wanting to copy the unruly behavior. If the behavior is especially inviting, it may take days for me to get my kids back on track. Added bonus: my kids probably go to school/camp/day care with kids who are similarly unruly, so it's a constant struggle to squash that kind of behavior. I don't mind, really--that's what I signed on for--but you can see why it gets doubly annoying for me to see this sort of stuff. But, there's not much to be done, except keep plugging along. We also lavishly praise good behavior, knowing it's difficult for kids to sit still when others are running amok.

By the way, I didn't mention it earlier, but Buzz's favorite trick is to pass out when he's overwhelmed! Medically it's no big deal, but it's a sure way to get lots of attention!

[tkd lisa]

Boy, I think as a parent, this thread is something I can really relate to. I also happen to be one of those people who sees both sides of a situation (usually at the same time, which drives my DH NUTTTS!:D) Anyway, on the side of the "grumpy older couple" I do second the fact that the booth thing probably was disturbing them. Most of those booths are bolted together back to back, so their seat was probably moving around a lot. I've had it happen to me both when my child moved it and when a child on the other side did it. And when my child does it, I point out to them that we are moving both our seat and the seat behind us, then apologize to the other table. Stand by for a big generalization here folks: Most older people (i.e. mid fifties and up) didn't eat the way that we did with their kids. I know that for my DH, their family NEVER ate out. When they did, it was such a big deal that the kids were expected to be on absolute perfect behavior. Of course, most people today with young kids have different lifestyles. For us, eating at a Friday's type restaurant with our kids is just normal. For that couple, it might have been a real treat. Certainly it would be reasonable for them to think that it should have been a treat for your family. Again, I'm not saying that they were right to react that way to you. I'm just saying that I can see a perspective where they would have felt that way.

To those who commented about the before kids perspective, boy can I relate. I remember saying "if my child acted like that, we'd leave right then and there". And there have been times that we have left based on the kids behavior. But there are times that we've just muddled through it, and said Sorry on the way out the door.

Great topic everyone!!

[CarolAnnC]

Just a reminder that we are the Cruise Board and the topic may be discussed as to how it relates to the Cruise Ships.

A general discussion of restaurant behavior outside of cruising would be appropriate on our DIS Family Board. Thank you very much! :)

[JJRide]

I can relate to most all of you. My child is so precious to me and I am so proud of him. He is adorable and very smart too. He is ADHD and Asperger's Syndrome. His size and social development is a little behind other children his age, but to me, that makes him all the more special and sometimes harder to control.

I like to help other parents when they are having some troubles too. I do not mind a stranger making a comment to my child like "Santa's watching" or something like that. Sometimes it takes a stranger's remark to straighten his behavior out.

I'm sure we all try our best to make sure our children do not bother those folks who just don't understand kids. So, let's keep loving our kids and being proud of them spite what bad remarks others might say.

Let's go Disney and as parents, never grow up!

I can't wait, only 23 more days.

[daltonsdodisney]

I agree with grlzmom. I have 2 DD's, ages 8 and 6 and have always expected them to behave in public when that is appropriate. My youngest has always been especially impatient, squirmy, and loud. I tried to prepare myself, explaining to them what is expected from them and then at a restaurant or whatever, let them color, snack on chips, etc... If it was a longer wait, either myself or husband would play tic-tac-toe, read a book from the diaper bag, etc.. If they're being cranky and out of control, one of us will take them to the restroom for a talk/spanking, whichever it merits. Yes, I know spanking isn't PC at the moment, but it worked for us. Now, I can take them anywhere and they can enjoy many more experiences. We're past the spanking part now and I can say whenever we're with friends, family, etc.. with children of similar ages, I am appalled at the way the parents let the kids walk all over them. They seem embarrassed and wonder why I don't have that problem. No, my kids aren't perfect and there are times I'm not sure what to do with them, but I think it's a matter of each parents' tolerance and expectation level for their own children.

[npall]

For your different perspectives..after reading alot of the posts I now understand the couple a little better about the bumping in the booth..to be hoenst with you I never thought about it making someone physically ill which would make sense....Needless to say I will not be letting ds walking around in the booth in the future...

Again thanks to everyone for all the response...

Naomi

[chrisn]

I am a 33 year old mother of a 14 year old DD and a 4 year old DS. When I was 18 my husband and I lived in a little apartment and my neighbor always use to come over with her 18 month old daughter. I thought that kid was the most annoying brat on the face of the earth. Looking back now I see that she was a most delightful, well behaved and inquisitive child. I use to tell my husband "my kid will never act like that". I have since discovered that I was a neat freak and overly compulsive about dumb stuff that really does not matter. My daughter was a sweet little thing that would sit in a nice little spot and play quietly with dolls or barbies and if she did not get her way big aligator tears would roll silently down her fat little cheeks. Ten years later I got surprise #2. A handsome little man. A darling boy that loves his mommy. Big blue eyes and thick blonde hair. I potential girl magnet. A child I could not imagine living without. A wolf in sheeps clothing. Hell on Wheels. You get the picture. But I wouldn't have it any other way. My point is boy did I get paybacks for the comments I made and it really opened my eyes wide and made me all the wiser. Yes I do have children but I can completely relate to those who don't and get annoyed easily because even my own children annoy me. But you see I think it's easier to understand and deal with when you have been on both sides of the fence. Most of the time kids are just that kids, growing up and being curious and having fun and yes even irritating. Granted there are exceptions but it's not the children's fault. Mostly it's the parents and the guidance they give. I would definitely get defensive if I thought my children were being attacked unneccessarily but in minor instances I try to control this tigress protecting her cubs and remember what it was like before I had children of my own and just chalk it up to a little inexperience. Babysitting is not the same thing!

[goofysgirl]

Children are children Thank God! I don't care if they are bumping the booth, talking a little too loud, or making everyone in the restaurant laugh. Without these little bundles of joy, there would not be too many tomorrows. I have watched my children make their grandparents extremely proud just by smiling. I have lived thru the terrible twos three times, and I can count on my hand the number of times that my girls have embarassed me in public. But you know what? I can't thank them enough for making us a complete family, trials, tribulations, and all! They have lifted my heart so many times, without even trying. Having lost both of my parents, I know how precious life is. Please enjoy these little bumps in the road, control your kids as much as you can, but let them live too! Things always seem different from a little one's perspective. My girls are 7,11,and 14. They are good atheletes, students, but most of all good people. They were little once with all that went with it. Let's all try and remember what it was like to be that little in such a great big world.

[RIDISNEYLOVERS]

KUDOS TO GOOFYSGIRL!!

I can't agree with you more!!

Lisa

[TnRobin]

As Carol tried to point out, this discussion really belings on the Family Board, not the Cruise Board, so I am moving it there. :)

[PattyH804]

Hi all,
Just got to put my 2 cents in here.
I'm glad npall understands the bumping
of the booth. It is quite annoying.
I do have a 6 and 3 yr old. My Belle,
the 3 yr old is my funnygirl. My son will
sit quietly and always has, no matter
where we go.
My son's legs are a little short on
airplanes still and he uses the seat
in front of him to push himself up on.
I kept slapping his legs down (don't
jump on me, I did it gently) and even
apologized to the lady when we reached
our destination. She said she didn't feel
a thing and I didn't need to worry about
it. :)
A suggestion I have, is to take a
"goody" bag with you everywhere. I
keep them in the car and change the
items out every so often. This works
wonders with my kids. Even at 2 they
love stickers and they are relatively
inexpensive. I like the kind that can
be moved around on the pages. This
always makes eating in restaurants
a very pleasant experience for us.
Hope it helps for someone else.:)

[npall]

I couldn't have put it better...thank you....


Naomi

[Jordan's MOM]

What a great thread because every parent has been there. We started taking our Ds out to nice places very young. We always set up "resturant rules" Very simple at first: Stay in your chair and use an indoor voice. We later added rules about being polite and good manners. All good things. However, sometimes it works and sometimes it does not. Though it was rare, my DS like any child has misbehaved and disturbed someone in a resturant. I just apoligzed and reminded DS of the rule. In nine years we only had to leave a resturant once. Had to take him out for a few mintes and then bring him back a few times however. A child has to learn "adult" behavior and it takes time for them to learn. I rarely get upset with a child in a resturant but often do with a parents that brings a small tired child to a resturant at 8:00 at night or comes to a place that you know you will have to wait with out anything for them to do. I only complained once and that was at Cinderella's when three boys about 9 or 10 came running full speed ahead and ran directly into us and a waiter. The waiter went with them to their parent's table to take care of it. I do often make coments to parents on their children's good behavior is resturants.


Jordans mom

[5GEORGE]

I'M SORRY, BUT WDW IS A FAMILY RESORT ESPECIALLY FOR CHILDREN OF
ALL AGES. WDW CM OUR PREPARED FOR CHILDREN, THERE IS NOT A RESTURANT THAT CHILDREN ARE NOT WELCOMED EXCEPT PLEASURE ISLAND. IF SOMEONE WOULD COMPLAIN OR BECOME ANNOYED BECAUSE OF OUR CHIDRENS PRESENCE I WOULDN'T BE A HAPPY CAMPER.
OUR FAMILY HAS RESSIE FOR WDW 5-28 THRU 6-3-02, I HAVE SPENT MANY LONG HOURS PLANNING AND SAVING $$$$ FOR A MAGICAL TRIP TO BE ABLE TO SPEND WITH MY FAMILY.
WHERE ELSE IN THE WORLD CAN A FAMILY GO TO HAVE FUN AND RELAXATION? CHILDREN ARE VERY UNPREDICTABLE ESPECIALLY AT PLACES LIKE WDW, HOW COULD ANYONE BECOME AGGITATED AT A SMALL TODDLER ESPECIALLY IF THERE NOT EVEN YOURS . IF YOU DON'T
LIKE CHILDREN, THEN PLEASE DO NOT COME TO WDW.

[padams]

This thread reminds me of my BIL. BIL and SIL live on the west coast. We last visited tem when DSs were 2 and 4. We dined out several times, and it was obvious that BIL was "appalled" at our children's behavior. Of course, they were just being 2 and 4 yos. We don't allow them out of their seats at restaurants, must not be loud ,etc. At the time, BIL and SIL had a newborn. I actually heard BIL "whisper" to his kid, "I know you will never act that way." Well, guess what, their kid is now 2 and doesn't sit still for a minute, especialy at a restaurant. I want to say "I told you so" but BIL and SIL think that their firstborn is the most brilliant, well behaved 2yo in history.:rolleyes:

[sha_lyn]

I love this thread. I have 2 "heck on wheels" kids. DS was a wonderful kid until he reached 11 (LOL he is still a wonderful kid, he is just a typical teenager now). DD is 4 and is our hard to settle down/hard to please kid. We went ot see Lord of the Rings when it first came out. We saw an earl yshow as usual. The theatre was pretty crowded because it was a rain day. After the show a man came up to up and commented on how well DD behaved during the movie. I was beaming with pride. She can certainly be a handful at times but all our work is finally paying off. My theory is if you don't take them out and expose them to how to behave in public they never will. After all I've seen many adults that behave worse than a tired hungry 2 yr old. Of couse she has her days like today when she comepletely forgets how to behave in public and there wasn't an option to leave (we were at the chiropractor's office). She didn't know how to behave in the car either. Poor DS had shoes and chewed gum thrown at him.

[Eileen226]

To all of you who are going on future Disney Cruises...HAVE A GRRRRRRRREAT TIME! TO all of you who are going to WDW the first week of July (1-5 to be exact!) let's have some fun! I am bringing my two "babies" (12,16 to be exact) they still fight in line, they still get on each other's nerves, I still yell at least one of them for holding on to the railing in the lines to propel themselves! But after almost fifteen trips together (my husband USED to work for American Airlines) they still vote to go to WDW everytime. We are bringing our in-laws for their forty fifth anniversary with their grand children ( 1st trip for the in-laws) upgraded to WL and can't wait. My point is, after all this, we have done trips with the kids, several with just the two of us, and have ALWAYS encountered, excited, NORMAL small children at WDW! They are supposed to be excited, they are supposed to squirm thru dinner and not eat their usually very expensive chicken fingers or mac and cheese, but their faces are the heart and soul of what WDW is all about. Can't wait to see all of them!

[MeMeMouse]

I understand your being upset! This happened to me for the first time the other day! I took my three month old for a walk in the mall. We sat done to have a soda at the food court and my DD got fussy (nothing major). Well, you would have thought we were in a fancy rest. Afew people got up and moved (fine by us!) The kicker was I am a Teacher of the Deaf and can read lips pretty well. The people went on and on about the crying baby!!! I was pretty angry to say the least. We are going to Disney in afew months and I'm sure my DD wish me luck:0)

[wdisneyaholic]

Here is my 2 cents....

First let me say that I have 3 small kids, a 21/2 year old and twin 18month olds. ALL BOYS!!!!! In today's society I think that most people have kids or have been around kids. Having said that, I enjoy going olut to dinner with my kids and try to keep them under control, as much as we can. I have every right to go to a resutaurant with my kids, I feel that if you d o not want to see kids or hear kids when you go out to eat then maybe you should go to a very fancy restuarant. Places like Chili's, Friday's Applebee's etc are considered "family" type restaurants. They have children's menus. I would never take my kids to a fancy restaurant at this age. I feel that people are paying a price to dine in a quiet more relaxing place.

By the way, I will not be taking them to the movies anytime soon. And then it will be a "kid" movie and I will probably be seeing some of you guys there too!!

[momoftwins]

No word of a lie - we were at MK two weeks ago. There were two women behind us in the in the security checkpoint line. They followed us through the ticket turnstile. My 6 yr old twins were jumping up and down laughing/clapping at getting thru the gates. They were loud, but not so much that I needed to tell them to calm down.

There were several families with children of various ages either doing the same thing or in some cases their kids were crying. Anyway, these two women complained the entire time we were going thru the entrance process.

Once we got past the turnstiles, one turned to the other and said: "...I can't believe parents bring their kids to a place like this. They should really make this an adult only park..."

I assure you they were quite agitated and this was not said jokingly. I told my husband maybe they shoud have gone to the IOA instead! Gee whiz!

[docswkids]

My two boys are full of energy and at times difficult in public places. For those parents who look down their nose at me when my kids are melting down I think they probably have children born with different temperments than mine. For the childless people amoung us or those with grown children who have no tolerance whatsoever for kid behavior the first thing I think to myself but do not say is "You were not born all grown up, you too were a child once, and I'm sure you were annoying to some adult at least once in your life." I also think if you dont like kids, stay away from disney, and I mean parks, cruises, restaurants, the whole shebang. There are plenty of excellent, beautiful, luxurious adult oriented vacation spots all over the world and many, many cruise lines to choose from
.
We got the evil eye one morning while walking through the lobby of the Beach Club on our last vacation. It actually was the only morning son number two did not have a tantrum in the lobby. The kids were just exuberant and running ahead of us a little. An older man looked at us like he could not believe that a 4 and 6 year old would be allowed to do such a thing.

We actually avoid eating out, because our kids really cant sit that long at the table, and are difficult to control in a restaurant. When we do eat out it is usually in a casual, bustling sort of restaurant. The louder the better.

[elemusing]

My ds just turned 4 and he is VERY ACTIVE. He wears me out! Anyway, I sympathize with the original poster and I have been there, sister!

It is frustrating to be around people that are clueless about children. But we do occasionally have to go out and we do have to shop, etc.! hee hee

Angie

[Chance's Mom]

As a teacher of gifted children-

I have always believed that active, energetic, enthusiastic behavior is a very good sign of an intelligent child!

:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

[VickiVM]

Wow, what a great thread! I have 3 kids - 8, 5 & 3. We are just now getting to the point in their lives that we can actually go out as a family to the movies, dinner, zoo, etc. without major meltdowns. For those of you with younger toddlers, take heart - they do get more manageable as they get older.

A couple of years ago we were all in Chicago for a few days and went to an Italian restaurant near our hotel. It appeared to be a family restaurant...open dining room, not too stuffy. There were a variety of customers there. Nonetheless we're doing our usual "No. Leave that alone. I said to stop that. Leave your sisters alone. The table will be ready in a few minutes. Come here!". By the time we sat down I was beginning to worry that a major meltdown was due any moment. We got to our table and I sat my then 3 year old in her chair and because of the way the slats on the back of the chair were, she caught her fingers in them and let out the most pathetic ear-piercing scream ever. (Actually, for her, it was just one of her usual screams...). The eyes of everyone in the dining room were on us. After a few moments of panic crying and wailing I managed to free her fingers and that was that. We ordered, had our meal and the rest of the evening was without incident. DH and I were truly exhausted from the stress of maintaining control of everyone's temperment throughout the meal. As we were wrapping it up, the older couple that was at the table next to ours were getting up to leave and paid our children compliments of how well behaved they were. Go figure. We graciously said thank you. When we were outside the restaurant, DH and I could hardly contain our laughter.

I think we all sypathize with the struggling parents when it's apparent they are making attempts to keep the children in line. Good manners go a long way in making others around you comfortable. We apologize to other patrons of restaurants we are in when our children are obviously disruptive. We do pull our children out of the situation if it becomes out of control. I think that's what the general public wants...not a public beating of the child, just an acknowledgment that the poor behavior is beyond acceptable and is being corrected.

[Tinkerbells2000]

As a mom of 4 kids, (2,4, 6, and 8) I can see both sides... I know that kids do have their moments, and that there is nothing that a parent can do. If a child decides to cry, they are going to cry... I think that most people understand that kind of behavior... The thing that gets me, and that has been mentioned once or twice are the kids without parental control... The ones that are running around, bumping into people, knocking things down, and the parent in their own little world. My 6 year old little girl has some problems with her sugar levels, and at times she will go into a fit that no one can control, at least until we get some fast acting sugars in her. However, we did not know this for the 1st couple of years of her life, so there were some fits that she threw when we were out, that I know people were rolling their eyes at , heck, I was at a loss as to what to do. The "regular discipline" that I had used on my other child was not working... So I was even saying that "this kid just needs some parental control" Now that we know she has this problem, we always keep fast acting sugars, and other snacks with us. Because of this, I always really feel for the parents that seem to be trying to get control, but the kid is still way out of control, and you see people passing making comments. The people passing really have no idea what the situation is about, or what could be causing it, but they always seem to have a solution.

We have been very fortunate that my other 3 kids, and now that we have my 6 year old regulated, are usually pretty well behaved when we are out. It is a little harder in Disney because the 6 year old has to eat a lot more often to keep the sugar levels decent, and at times, she may have a fit, if she doesn't eat for a couple of hours. (In the hot sun and walking the sugars get burnt off a lot faster), but for the most part they are all very well behaved, and I can not think of a time that we have been out when someone hasn't complimented our kids.

It is though, very hard when you see the kids at the next table taking off their shoes, and throwing food, etc... I have seen that many times, then my kids want to do it... To me, this is something that parents can control.. It's not kids just being kids. I was never allowed to throw food or take off my shoes when I was out as a kid, and I will not allow my kids to. I think (and this is just my opinion only) there are too many parents that don't really feel like dicsiplining their children, because of whatever reason, and they write everything off as kids just being kids, and it's an easy out so that parents don't have to do their job... I am not saying this in response to anything that I have read on this particular post, but I have seen and heard it enough times, that I have begun to hate that phrase... There is normal kid behavior, and there is "oh my goodness, your child needs a straight jacket, and you need to learn how to be the parent of the house" I think there is a difference. Anyway... I know this was long, but I have so many thoughts on this subject... Thanks to anyone who read all the way through.

[MinnieGi]

As I read the original post, I was nodding my head in agreement b/c it sounds like what we do anytime we eat out. We have a 20 month old DD who we always let stand in the booth b/4 our meal and sometimes during it too. She just wouldn't make it through a meal in the highchair alone. Besides she'll just climb out of it, if she's sick of it. She's a very happy little girl who squels with delight, talks up a storm and explores everything. I guess we have always been very lucky with the people we sit beside b/c usually they turn around and talk to her, smile, ask us questions etc. I never thought that her walking on the booth would be bothering someone else b/c no one has ever complained. But I will defienetly be keeping this in mind now!!

You know I'm just thinking back on our Nov. Disney trip and I don't recall seeing babies, toddlers, children in any restaurant (and we did sit down, quite a bit) being rambunctious or overly active. I guess they were all thankful everyone was sitting down and taking a break!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

[fumipappa]

Until I become a "father", I was always thinking that kids were just noisy and dirty.
But kids are the best gift I have ever gotten in my life( My first daughter an I have same birthday!, well 30yrs different :D)

Here is my point:

You never get how precious they are until you get them.

And problem of those complainer to kids are they don't realize they also were kids and they were taking care of their kids.

I don't want to see the world without kids smile, I don't want to see the world with only "matured " adults struggling and fighting each other.

I mentioned my apt story in other topic. And when I get similar reaction, kids hated reaction from someone else, I always say "I'm sorry" to the person and same time, I always repeat one phrase in my mind.. "what a pathetic person, what a pathetic person...":p