[artplumber]

Originally Posted by mikester

The family behind me arrived right after us, in the restaurant when we arrived was a pair of older folks having their own night out.

....

I know that before I had children I didn't like the loud kids in the restaurant thing but what are you going to do? If parents don't bring their kids to restaurants then the kids won't learn how to behave at one (assuming good parenting here which is what was happening last night). We try to be as considerate as we can but our kids don't have mute buttons and especially the younger ones - feelings and emotions run hot and quick.

I know people hate kids but I hate people so those who hate kids can kiss my butt.

Mike read your post again. Do you see the dichotomies? Then think about the the assumption that the "old guy" "hates kids" and the thought process that gets to some of the attitudes you expressed. Why didn't you like loud kids? What about anyone else who is disturbed by loud people (not just kids)? If you (or anyone else) knew you had a child who was going to be unable to deal with an enviroment, why would you put them in that situation (and set them up to fail)? Go to somewhere that the behaviour is more acceptable like ChuckECheese. From the other view (in this case the "old guy"), it seems pretty selfish to insist that he shares these kids' outbursts just so those parents can eat sushi, don't you think? It's just like going to the movies and having kids disturb the audience (or cell phones for that matter).

Frankly, kids don't need to be in a restaurant to learn good behavior at mealtimes.

And yes, I have a kid. And yes, we didn't eat out for a while.