Parents not taking there crying child outside at a restaurant or store

[LadyForCamus]

I don't really understand why families take their babies out to eat in a restaurant anyway. It's not like babies can eat whatever is on the menu yet, and it's not like they're going to have fond memories of "that time my parents took me out as a baby" in years to come. There's no need for it in the first place. Like really, stay in your "taking the newborn for a stroll in the park" lane.

I don't envy anyone who works in retail long-term though. That one summer in 2013 was enough for me. I have SO many little things customers do that piss me off just from those 4 months.

As a first time parent with a 1.5 year old toddler, I'll give you my opinion/experience. My husband and I have been bringing our son out to eat with us (occasionally) ever since he was born! When he was a newborn it was easy because he slept all the time. As they get a bit older it becomes harder, of course.

We have stipulations though: We NEVER let him just cry or be disruptive. Ever. If we are out at a place and he's had enough, then it's time to go, regardless of where we are in our meal. This is for his benefit as well as everyone else's. We don't even try it in the first place if he's tired or is having a cranky day. We also don't bring him to super nice places, or bring him out anywhere when it's close to his bed time. Nice restaurants in the evenings are for when grandma can come and stay with the baby. It's a sacrifice we are happy to make as parents.

I can understand the desire to have an age limit at certain places. It's too bad, because I think if most parents were reasonable and used their critical thinking skills when it comes to taking their little one out to eat, it wouldn't be an issue.