Backlash Against Child-Toting Bar Hoppers
As Brownstone Brooklyn becomes increasingly overrun by the stroller set, certain people have had enough, especially as the last sanctuary of grown-up decadence and childlessness has been invaded: In the arty, stroller-infested Brooklyn neighborhood [of Park Slope], the nearly 3-year-old smoking ban has had an additional effect beyond vexing nicotine addicts: It’s made bars more…
As Brownstone Brooklyn becomes increasingly overrun by the stroller set, certain people have had enough, especially as the last sanctuary of grown-up decadence and childlessness has been invaded:
In the arty, stroller-infested Brooklyn neighborhood [of Park Slope], the nearly 3-year-old smoking ban has had an additional effect beyond vexing nicotine addicts: It’s made bars more welcoming for young parents and their offspring. And while that may be a welcome development for thirsty moms and dads, it’s an affront to those, like Andy Heidel, who see bars as a last refuge from the kids who overrun local restaurants and cafes. “A bar is a place for adults,” Heidel, a 36-year-old writer, says flatly. “It’s not a playground for your child. What the hell are these people thinking?”
We’re guilty of bringing the young ‘uns along with us to an occasional early dinner out but can completely understand why there are those who would prefer to drink in peace.
Lowering the Bar [NY Post]
My kids love bowling at Chelsea Piers on weekend evenings. I dont know if this qualifies as a bar, but they turn down the lights and start carding after 7pm. The last 2 times that we’ve been, we had couples on a first date bowling next to us. One of the guys was a little pissed of the kids where in the lane next to him and tried to get us moved. Shortly after that his date left him.. The other time, the guy was all into my kids, trying to show them tricks and things. By the looks of things when we left, things were looking good for him.
The only reason i can see people not wanting kids around watering holes is that they are ashamed of what goes on in these drinking establishments. It has nothing to do with them not belonging. They’re going to a bar for christ’s sake. It’s not looking they’re going to an R-rated movie.
Anon 12:31,
We’re not talking about hating children or being uncomfortable in the presence of several different age groups. We, parents and non-parent alike, are talking about the habit of bringing children to places where they do not belong. Even if the children are not ours, we still have a right to our opinions. If it’s an “American” thing, then so be it.
Good God, you guys are depressing. I have no problem with children in bars – who cares? you must have grown up in those awful households where children are relegated to the barely seen and not heard category. I remember being astonished at how awkward my american peers were well into their twenties in social situations where there were several age groups present – this is why, i guess. even before I had children, I loved it if they were running around – especially in those days, b/c it wasn’t my job to run after them! I can understand small dogs, but kids? if they’re not yours, why do you care?
Hey Brownstoner, my 2yo was one of the last to leave. But as you said, we were in the backyard, not belly to the bar. Also, I thought of that as more of a private party.
Just realized we brought our kids to the Brownstoner 1-Year Anniversary Party at the Pioneer Bar in Red Hook–but at least it was the afternoon and we were outside!
As a father who takes his kids to many age apprpriate resaurants,cultual institutions,etc.,I agree with the bartender-no kids in bars.When I finally get the opportunity nowadays to go to an adult venue the last thing I want to see is a kid.
And another thing-stop bringing your kids to my favorite karaoke bar and hanging out till 11:00 or later!These parents sit there watching there darlings perform until the wee hours and by the looks on there faces youd think they just dropped ectasy and were hearing Josh Grobin for the first time while the rest of us have to remain on our best behavior.I go to all my kid’s recitials and school musicals-thats not why I go out at night.Karaoke starts at 9?-Get em out by 10.
I’m guilty. Though we do keep it to happy hour or earlier, and usually go to less crowded and more wide open bars when we do go out. We did it a lot more in the pre-toddler months, too. OTOH, we also do a hell of lot more entertaining at home.
If kids are brought to the bars, does that mean that adults can have cocktail on playgrounds and kids’ soccer games? Especially if they have no kids at either?
I don’t like babies at bars because they get all of the female attention and I get jealous. It’s also a bit trashy when a young mom comes in with her kid and gets hammered. 😛