To Bring Kids or Not to Bring?

That is the question on many young parents’ minds when they have a simcha to attend, and cannot find a babysitter. Especially when the simcha is that of a cousin or close friend, these parents feel that urge to take the sleeping baby along. Or to take the well-behaved toddler along and seat them on mommy’s lap. Or to take the pre-school child along and have them not take a seat.

But in many places– such as restaurants or fancier homes – children are just not welcome. Not that these hosts don’t like kids. It’s just that they feel the kids upset the decorum of the event.

I always feel sorry for both sides when these dilemmas occur. I feel sorry for the awkward and tense hosts who don’t really appreciate that the couple brought their kids, but don’t want to be rude and show it.

I feel sorry for the mom and dad who somehow don’t get that their kid is not really as well-behaved or adult-like in other people’s perceptions. And that if the child was not invited, why bring him or her along?

I feel sorry for the young parents, when their feelings are hurt by the strict rules of their less tolerant society.

I guess these are sticky situations, and strong opinions abound on either side of the picket fence. I know that it depends on the society. Some cultures embrace children of all ages at dinner parties, while other societies are more of the opinion that “children should be seen and not heard” — and maybe not even seen when the adults are out celebrating.

Hmmm. I’d love to read the views of other bloggers. Feel free to comment here.

What is your opinion???