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January 26, 2010

Written by: Joe Harvey

"Children should neither be seen or heard from - ever again."

Ah, the great W.C. Fields was many things, but not a food service professional. In a civilized society, we might endorse Mr. Fields' sentiment but we all know that food service is less than civilized. Short of water boarding little Rocco on his rampage through our packed restaurant, we offer some rules of engagement on the question of children in restaurants.

Restaurant Should:

 - Know that there will be kids, know their ages, accept the disorder, and realize the opportunity.

 - Seating properly, space,location and server.A kid-savvy server makes all the difference

 - Get the kids order first, fast. Don't wait for the parents to order drinks. Distract, deploy, defeat.

 - Consider a special family nite, or dedicated time slot to lure patrons in. Consistency is key. Families run on schedules.

 - Got highchairs? Clean'em and repair'em

 - Bad kids? Do something. Management needs to step up!

 - Only have Chick fingers, burgers fries and pizza? Have a better kid’s menu.

 - Be aware of when/if the kids get antsy and bring a treat of some kind?

 - Develop a policy for dealing with unruly children. Communicate the policy to staff and to customers and be prepared to enforce it.

 - Are they a great family, with well-behaved kids? Tell them. Re-enforce them.

 - This one might be tough, but have a “Family Restroom.” Or family friendly at least

 - Always remember, Mom and Dad are paying the bill. Don't slight them for bringing the ruckus. They need a moment of peace and comfort. If you want repeat customers, they are the target.

 

Customer Should:

 - Let the restaurant know you have children upon making reservation.

 - Take responsibility for your children and control them or leave.

 - Clean up after them. Not the  unimaginable mess they've created under the table, just the destruction wreaked on the surface.

 - Tip heavier. Kids are a lot of work. Or at least acknowledge the servers extra efforts.

 - Know your child’s “bad” time. Are they rested, not sick.. and hungry?

 - Bring your own coloring books, quiet toys etc.

 - Use highchairs when appropriate, not your lap.

 - Do not let children run around freely, ever.

 - No breastfeeding or diaper changing in the dining room.

 - Try not to use the sugar caddies as a toy..someone has to put all those packets back…neatly. Just don’t. No S & P shaker play either.

 - Know when to order for them. If they are done b4 you eat, you got problems

 - Reward a good experience and let management know you appreciate their attitude toward children in their establishment.

 


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Comments (1)
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Vincent McConeghy
Jan 28, 2010 4:53 PM

Joe- Thanks for the article. I regret not having an action plan when I was in the business to cater better to the needs of kids in the restaurant. After kids, everything changes.

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