The Hubs had a meeting so I decided it would be a win-win for me. I wouldn't have to cook or clean up alone - so off we went to Chick Fil A.
We arrived to find the place pretty empty. Gomer was crushed that none of his friends were there, but when I offered to take him home and cook dinner he quickly decided french fries would dull the pain.
As we finished our dinner people started trickling in. None of the kids were Gomer's age though. Everyone was quite a bit older. Closer to 10 or 11. By now Gomer and Adolpha were finished eating and begged for some time in the petri dish that is the playland. I really wanted to say "No," but I'm not that mean, so I looked at my watch and decided they had "10 minutes to play." (I always say 10 minutes because neither Gomer nor Adolpha wear a watch and when they play they lose all sense of time so my 10 minutes could really be 5 if I'm in a rush or 15 if I find a friend to chat with.)
After about 2 minutes Gomer came back out and said it was getting "too wild" in the play area. Chick Fil A doesn't really have any place for adults to sit inside their playland. The kids are behind glass and I could look in there and see what was going on. Gomer was right. There were 5 or 6 or 30 (it was impossible to tell, because they were moving so fast they were blurs of color) older boys whooping and hollering and running at top speed through the tiny playscape. One boy was sitting on top of the tube slide and dangling his bare feet down so kids had to push through his feet to get out (I don't know why, but bare feet always seem dirtier to me than sock covered feet). Another boy was literally climbing the outside of the structure and swinging from a sign that specifically said: DO NOT CLIMB. And I can't forget to mention the boy I watched jump over a toddler. Yeah, he jumped over her! She thought it was funny, but her dad didn't. He grabbed her and her squeaker shoes and they were gone in a flash.
I looked around to see if I could tell who the wilding boys belonged to, but it was impossible to tell since no one seemed to be taking any interest in the kids in playroom except the family next to us whose son is a friend of Gomer's (one friend had finally shown up).
I was torn. On one hand, Gomer is my softer kid and he really needs to learn to stand up for himself. However, these boys were several years older than him and would probably laugh in his face if he stood up to them.
"Where's Adolpha?" I asked. She's my tougher kid and she usually can tell off kids who are bothering her brother.
"I'll get her," Gomer replied. He returned a few minutes later with Adolpha.
"I hear it's wild in there," I said to her.
"Yup," she said.
"Those big boys are causing a lot of trouble, huh?"
"Yup."
"Hmm....what should we do?" I asked.
"Easy-peasy. Tell them to get out. They're too big, mom. They can't even fit in the car up there!" She pointed to the taxi cab thing jutting off the structure where a boy had folded himself like a pretzel to get into. I was a little happy to see he was stuck and starting to panic.
Adolpha was right. These boys were way too big to be in there. Then I got to thinking. Is Gomer too big? Should Gomer not be allowed to play in these things anymore either? At what age is too big?
Is it an age thing or is it a behavior thing? Gomer is an average sized 7 year old, but he's fairly slow moving and he doesn't have the agility or the guts to jump over a toddler. I don't even think at 10 he would be able to do that.
At what age do you tell your kids they are too old to play in the playland at Chick Fil A, McDonald's, etc.?
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132 comments:
Boycott Chick Fil A, they pay big money to fight gay rights. I don't support companies or people who breed hate!!!
Just went through the same thing at Jack Frost Festival...our hotel has a playroom set up for the children and there wer two ringette teams in the hotel who decided that it was OK as 15 year olds to take the Wii controllers from the 6 year olds who had patiently waited their turns. Or to play in the playhouse...or take over the knee hockey rink. Not a parent in sight...likely relaxing in their rooms enjoying the peace.
I think that on average 6-7 year olds (depending on size) and younger should be able to play in the playlands at the restaurants but anyone older than that or is bigger than an average 6-7 year old should refrain from playing in there unless the restaurant is empty. Too many times, the little kids get trampled because the big kids are not watching out for them. Unfortunately, parents of the bigger children don't bother to watch the kids because they are bigger and don't realize they are trampling the little ones. Parents need to parent and kids need to learn to be more considerate and careful.
I kinda think it should be size over age - I mean if you can't fit in the tubes, cars, chutes, ball pits it's probably best you don't go in there -
There are kids that are WAY too big to be in the play areas, I mean when you are 12 years old and climbing through and getting stuck, I think you are too big. I don't know though that there is a specific age, but I do know that parents should pay MUCH closer attention to their children while they are in there. Too many times my children have come out crying because of someone elses child being crazy and their parents couldn't care less...that is until I come up to them! People just need to control their children, and also as a parent know when you're child is JUST TOO BIG!
When your kid poses a threat to the littler kids, then they are too big/old. My 8 year old by himself is too fast/daring/big for the play areas, but when he's with his toddler sister he is by her side helping her. He doesn't run around and scream and yell when there are little kids around (because I told him not to, that's called parenting). I would be seriously offended if someone told me he was too big. No, I'm too big to be following my daughter up and down those things, thank goodness I have a responsible older son who still fits to do it instead. But I would not hesitate to ask children who pose a safety threat to the little kids to leave.
I think it's a behavior thing. My friends 11 yr old went in a play structure with my 5 yr old and they had a great time. But the same place had a pack of 8 yr old boys that terrorized the place and made my kids cry.
There is one of those "you must be this tall or SMALLER to play in this area" signs at the Chick Fil A I used to take my little one to. But that never stopped parents from ignoring the rules and letting their kids run wild in there. And I have ZERO problems playing police and going into the restaurant and asking in a VERY loud voice, "who is the parent of the blonde boy in the red pants? he's pulling on someone else's kid and the little kid does NOT like it"
When I see a woman jump to attention and run in there, I know this is a habitual issue with this woman and her kid.
I've no problem ratting these kids out to their parents. I just stay away from talking to the kids in general since I've been sworn at by another parent for "yelling at their kid." Parents who don't parent get VERY offended when you try to parent their kid.
I think the guideline is primarilyin based on behavior. Obviously, if they're too big to fit, they shouldn't play, but beyond that, it's mostly HOW they act that I'm concerned about. As the previous poster mentioned, I find it perfectly acceptable if a polite older child is playing with a younger sibling/cousin. As long as the kid is not preventing anyone else from having fun, I don't really care how about age.
I know most play places (whether it be CFA or McDonalds, etc.) have a height marker on the door to the play area. Our CFA has a marker for "you must be this tall" and one for "you can't be any taller than". I have an almost-8 year old who is taller than most and he still squeezes in under the mark. He's considerate though and watches out for the little kids since he has a little brother of his own.
My 7 year old is still short enough to play at CFA. They have a height thing on their door. He's a tall 7 year old but he can still play. Once he's too tall, he's too tall and I have no problem telling him that.
Whatever the height limit, I tell my son to always avoid the little kids and if you come into contact with them, watch out for them and help them.
First, I LOVE chick-fil-a! It's the best fast food out there hands down. Second...I think 12 and under is appropriate, but if the kids are "wild" or being disruptive, or hurting little kids, then they need to go. OR (HERE'S A SHOCKER) Parents should be keeping an eye on their kids and be responsible for their actions.... I know, it's a bit much to ask :)
On a rainy day at monkey joe's last summer there were big kids in the toddler area. My daughter was under 2 at the time. They were ok at first, then they got wild and pushing her off of the kids slide. So I hauled my pregnant self into the jumpy thing and said "HEY!" real loud to get their attention, then I calmly said "that sign says to be in this area you have to have a pink arm band and yours is NOT pink, it's yellow. If you don't get out and leave the little kids alone I will tell the referee and he will send you home." They were gone in no time. Guess my mommy serious voice works on big kids too, score!
As my own kids will tell you, I am very opinionated of how kids interact with each other. If there is a bully, they need to be culled from the , as you put it, softer kids. (Perfect description by the way) Age is not always a factor. If a child ruins the pleasure for other kids, they should not interact with the other kids. Size and age should never matter; it's the respect for others that is the biggest responsibility parents have failed at. It's not a kid problem, it's parent problem.
We actual don't let our kids go to the play places at fast food joints after seeing our (then) 3 year old crawl out covered in dry vomit at the local BK lounge. At our local mall they have a play area 8 months of the year (minus 2 for the Easter Bunny and 2 for Santa). It's pretty cool all the structures are soft and bouncy but look rock hard. There is the same issue where the big kids jump in despite the sign saying if you are above X height you can't be there...I despise those parents who don't care about the other kids.
I think Kristy hit the nail on the head. As long as the kids "fit," I would say it's based on their behavior.
I hated those things when my kids were young! There was always some kid residing in the play tubes growling and shouting "I'm a monster!" which would scare the heck out of one of my daughters. I always had to crawl in the thing to get her out, because she was too afraid to move. Other moms never would 'fess up if it was their child doing the bullying, but I often got comments about my kid not being very brave. Seriously? Eventually I told the girls I couldn't fit anymore, and we stopped. I don't think it had anything to do with how big they were!
I am the mom who has no qualms about making other parents control their children. I start by loudly commenting to my children about how I expect them to behave: IDO NOT WANT TO SEE YOU CLIMBING UP THE WALLS LIKE THOSE KIDS OVER THERE. IT's against the rules. Do you see the sign over there?
Generally, the moms who hear that make some adjustments. If they don't I gently remind the other children to pay attention and that they shouldn't be climbing the walls. (One mom didn't like that and was very upset when I wouldn't back down and told her if she didn't want me intervening with her children to protect mine, then perhaps she should).
And when all else fails (or if you don't want a confrontation), get the manager. Chik Fil A managers are training to own their own store...They need happy customers to earn that right.
I'm with Zebsmom...I no longer support Chick-fil-a because they pour a TON of money into anti-gay legislation. If that was my kid, I'd have to tell them "Nope, sorry we aren't going to Chick-fil-a." I'd take them somewhere else. No way am I supporting gay bigotry...we already have enough as it is!
Well zebsmom are you also boycotting the Bible? It states very clearly in many areas that it is a abomination. Chick Fil A is just following what we are told to do. It's not hate we are to love everyone regardless of what the do or don't do. But we are supposed to hate sin. We all sin daily but we are to try to live a better life. That is what Chick Fil A is all about. Love the person but hate their sin or my sin or your sin. Think before you share your uninformed opinion.
Sure, if you like your fast food with a side of anti-gay bigotry, it's definitely the best. CFA throws a ton of money into anti-gay legislation and I find it really sad that people would rather eat a "delicious" chicken burger (which isn't even that great) than stand-up for gay people's rights. *sigh*
Ugh, I hate older kids that don't know how to behave! It all boils down to the parents not teaching their children to be respectful of others! My kids are bigger now and I always tell them to be careful around the little ones. My daughter loves little kids, she even gets motherly with them. There have been quite a few times I've had to tell a bigger kid to watch what he was doing. I'm not gonna let my kids get run because bigger kids don't have respect! I think some of the play areas need to have age limits, like only 10 and younger can play or something.
CFA's playland is small, I think in that case it should be 6 and under, just because it is so tiny.
And to the people who are all boycott CFA -- she didn't ask what your stance was on CFA. She asked what age is too big for playlands.
I thought the question was how old is too old to play in the playland, not an attack on Chick Fil A. If you don't go to Chick Fil A, then comment about McDonald's etc.. Usually there are posted age limits, but if not I tend to think 10 and under. But, I watch my kids through the window to make sure they don't get out of control.
I thought the question was how old is too old to play in the playland, not an attack on Chick Fil A. If you don't go to Chick Fil A, then comment about McDonald's etc.. Usually there are posted age limits, but if not I tend to think 10 and under. But, I watch my kids through the window to make sure they don't get out of control.
My 16 yo daughter will go on those things if she is watching her god sister and I have gleefully watched her chase rough housers out of little kid play structors to protect children she doesn't even know. In her words "you'd have tore my butt up if I'd have acted that much a fool!"
I agree that they need to cut off the age for some of these things. My son went to a 5 year old's party and there were 8-10YO's there who were being extra wild. It just becomes no fun for the younger kids. And a big punch to those parents who don't keep an eye on their kids - yes even older kids - to ensure that they are not terrorizing the younger ones just because they can.
Eeeewww the "typhoid pits" as I call them!! I actually think ur kid should be older & big enough to know proper handwashing techniques before they can play in those things!!!! I always avoided those playlands of germs at all cost!! YUCK!!!
The bible also says that a menstruating woman is unclean while she has her period and for 7 days after the bleeding stops and that anyone who touches her or something she sat on is also unclean. To cleanse herself she is supposed to wait 7 days affter the bleeding stops and then bring 2 doves to a priest to be sacrificed. So excuse me if I don't believe the bible when its says being gay is wrong.
I think in this case: Size matters. Big kids shouldn't be in there. I'd like to think that behavior matters but probably the kids with the behavior issues are the ones whose parents WANT them in there, to give the parents some peace and quiet!
...but what do I know. I was never allowed in the play-pit. I think it was that germ thing.
A couple years ago we took my son to CEC on a Friday night. He was 5 and having a great time until Seniors from a local high school started pouring in... They had their senior night at Chuck E Cheese! I was pissed that my son, along with a lot of other kids, were running out of the tunnels crying their little eyes out. Some of the seniors were in the tunnels being very loud, pushing the kids, climbing over them, shaking the tunnels, etc... I was so disgusted that we quickly left before I ended up in jail and on the news for punching some rude teens in the throat. My son is 7 and still refuses to go into the tunnels.
I am right there with you. I have no problem telling kids who aren't being supervised that they need to behave, also. I guess being a teacher all those years.....it's just in my nature. And if more parents would step up like you and me, maybe the deadbeats would get a clue.
The rules for cleansing yourself after menstruation or touching an unclean animal are old testament. Under that covenant we had to make sacrifices and follow rules and rituals to be right with God. When Jesus died for all humanities sins, that was a new covenant making cleansing and purification null and void. Don't spout off about which parts of the Bible you choose to think should be followed and which parts not to. Clearly you don't believe any of it and i would be shocked if you had even read all of it. And chick fil a is a Christian based organization who is free to support or not support anything they choose. Its not about hate. Hating people who choose to believe homosexuality is wrong is just as bigoted and hypocritical.
UH OH! So you are saying I should not be worming my 47 year old body through those chutes and nets? CRAP! Just another example of age discrimination...sigh...
The bible has nothing to do with it, if it did there would be so many people who would lose rights in this world. If I remember correctly, it says in the 10 commandments something about adultery, yet we let adulterers continue to live!! We don't take their rights away?? We don't afford them rights simply because they are human?? This is not really the point, if anyone fights tooth and nail to keep equal rights away from PEOPLE they should not be supported. Chick fil A sponsers many of the shows on PBS that my 7 yr old loves, but he knows that we don't like Chick fil A, because in his words "they just aren't very nice"!!! Keep religion out of human rights people, and the world would be a better place!!
Thank you! I love how people want to tell you how you are supposed to live your life. If she was asking who supports CFA then fair game but that wasn't the question!
I get what you are saying. But how can you keep religion out of things when this country was founded on it? If this is the way America chooses to go then all religion should be removed from government. Chick fil a is only following its' beliefs. They aren't trying to say that gay people aren't people so they don't deserve equal rights. The Bible is what they believe so it has everything to do with it. They are free to support or not support things just as you are free to not support them. So it's all good right? Ill stop talking about this now since someone said religion and politics aren't the point of this blog. Sorry y'all. :)
It is shocking to me how people seem oblivious to the very obvious signs on every Chick-fil-a playland I have ever been to. There is a big ol' sign that says if your child is taller than this marker than they should not play inside. Pretty much every mall "playland" or any other I have been too has such signs. I have just come to the assumption that people with children past the age of 5 choose to ignore said signs since a) They figure their child will no longer get pummeled and b) after 5 years of parenting they are worn out and could care less whether they follow the rules that might not allow them to sloth off their parental responsibilities for 5 - 15 minutes. [or possibly c) the education system in our country has become so poor that those of procreation age are no longer able to read simple english]. Sorry...this one hit a nerve with me...
Just when you thought it was safe to pose a question... ;P
Those playland structures are the worst. We let my daughter loose in one a couple of years ago with our neighbor's kid who was 8 at the time (I think). The 8 year old went in because, as you pointed out, no adult can fit inside that hamster cage and we needed someone to watch our then 3 year old. They both came out with one or two battle scars (which were taken care of once they were hosed down in a gallon of Purell) and I think my daughter has some sort of playland PTSD because not once has she ever asked to go back in one.
CFA is a private Christian company so that makes total sense and they have every right. If you are offended then don't eat there. Berating people about it in multiple comments is just overbearing and obnoxious. We get it. You wont eat their chicken.
I boycott all "germ-pits" since the day I witnessed a 5-6 year-old punching my 1-yr-old in a giant log/tube. I had to shimmy in there and pull her out screaming. He, of course, ran off and nobody would claim him. I filed a complaint with Mall Security, but considering nobody would own up to him, nothing come of it. I felt better though.
I have to avoid places like that. I dont have the tolerance for people who use those places as kid-cages at the expense of smaller kids who are better suited to the area. My kids are deprived.
My daughter is a very petite eight years old and we still allow her into those play structures. I watch her like a hawk though, and if I saw her being out of control in the play structure I would pull her out of it immediately. I think my cut off is ten if you have to put an age limit on the play structures.
I think when the bigger kids are jerks to the littler kids, too rough, too fast, too impatient, that's when they need to not play in those anymore. Same goes for if they seem "too nice" and they are often staying where they can't be seen in those.
I actually want to go play in those still... but I'd scrape my back up to bits and cripple myself, and the germs and poop are scary.
I think you're too old when you're rough-housing, clearly defy the POSTED rules, and/or if all the other kids are 2-3 and you're 7-8. Those kids, even though they're still young, are old enough to understand that sometimes it's just not their turn.
I f-ing hate those things, precisely for what you described. A few months ago my 4-year-old daughter, who is truly as polite as the day is long, got punched by a fricking 8-year old (if we was a day, he was at least 8). I saw the g-d thing happen, and his mother glared at ME because he went crying to her like a puss boy that a girl hit him. Total fu--ing lie, and HIS mother was outside, chit-chatting with her friends while I was INSIDE on the bench in that stinky hellhole actually WATCHING my kids. I prayed she'd hit me, because I have almost never been so angry. I was with a friend as well, and she laughed and said she was ready for a fight. The two of us, who've never hit so much as a punching bag in our collective lives!
I wish I could say that I went to CFA management and told them the playground was out of control, kids were unsupervised, and we would NOT be back, that they went and kicked the kids out, etc. etc. Truth is, I left the place in a huff before I said or did something I'd have regretted. I hate those god-forsaken things, I hate them, I hate them, I hate them. And by the way, I love your blog. Because you tell it like it is. Thank you.
I have always hated those play areas in restaraunts, and my daughter was always small for her age. I don't think the problem is the size of the kids, its the fact that there are parents who consider it a place to let their wild ass kids run wild and completely ignore the fact that they seem to be on a seek and destroy mission. It amazes me how many people just take their kids in and completely ignore the fact that they are letting them destroy property and sometimes hurting younger children.
And I completely agree with Zebsmom. I loved Chic Fillet sandwiches, but will not support them anymore.
I have two teens and an eight year old... I think after 9 you have to draw the line. I have never been in a chick fil'A, so I don't know much about the play equipment. I do know, that if your child is sporting a mini stache and needs to wear antiperspirant they don't belong hurling plastic balls around the pit in their own make-shift dodgeball game.
I don't understand why some people say they can't fit in the tubes. I am 6'2" and 250 lbs. When my kids were about 1, we would let them go in the structures, but sometimes they needed a little boost or would get too afraid to come out, so I have climbed up in those many times. They are now 6 and 4 and very well behaved. Of course, we always watch them, just to be sure.
Not a big indoor play place fan...but the same thing applies to playgrounds. When the kids are scaling the outside of the structure, dangling from the support beams, kicking little kids to the ground, that's a problem. I agree with many in that it is more about behavior than age. If a 10 year old is climbing the rock wall and going across the monkey bars appropriately I am fine with that. A seven year old swinging a stick as kids go down the slide, not ok.
I think it depends on size and maturity level, but I think 8 is too old, unless he or she is being a responsible big sibling and watching out for a little one. My kids will always be small for their age, but I have taught them from day 1 that they have to watch out for little ones. At the same time, I worry about them getting roughed up when bigger kids take over. Too many parents think playgrounds and playplaces are dumping grounds for their kids. Trust me, I'd like a break as much as the next mom, but that doesn't happen.
I'm sorry to interrupt, but right after the bible says that homosexuality is wrong, it says (and I quote) 'You may think that you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say that they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things' (New Living Translation Student Bible, book of Romans, chapter 2, verse 1) And for the record, no, I don't hate anti gays. I don't agree with their opinion or most of the information that their opinions about gays are founded on. But I don't hate them.
Alright BlondeGirl, you gotta stop hating. They are a private company and can do whatever the hell they want with their money. I am a gay rights supporter and disagree with those who are against it on basis of the information that they base their opinions on, but you berating people for eating @ CFA is just mean. Being for gay rights does not excuse you from being rude. Forcing your beliefs on others merely prejudices them against gay rights. Please at least keep your demeaning comments to yourself unless your opinion on gay rights is asked for.
I love how everyone who posted on here have children that would NEVER act that way!
My pet peeve is the shoes !! Kids just kick them off and run on in. Drives me bananas. I've seen little ones take a nose dive tripping over them. I'm the Mom picking up EVERYONE's shoes and setting them neatly to the side. Also the ones that let their way too little kid play unsupervised drives me nuts too. The kids always tumble, trip or leave a peepee diaper trail with Mom no where in sight. Did I mention I have sanitizer on my person at ALL TIMES ?
OMG I was just thinking the same thing. All these perfect parents and perfect children!! I know my niece and nephew (I have no kids) can be hooligans and I've had to drag them off of their own trampoline for being wild around each other.
Single Lady
I love how this turned into a religious discussion: Religious zealots, listen up: YOU ARE WHY THIS COUNTRY IS GOING STRAIGHT DOWN THE TUBES. Isn't there an island you can all blow yourselves up on? We'd be a better country for it.
Is this really happening?
I am the mean mom who doesn't let her kids play in those play areas due to the germs! Especially during cold & flu season! Plus, they're just plain gross.
Eww. Why would you let your kids in that nastiness? Teach them from a young age that those places are disgusting and they will never want to go. Then take them to DQ for a Blzzard and everyone is happy.
My kids have their days...but I don't set them loose in a closed-in room with smaller children and let them go wild either. No kids are perfect, and it isn't the kids that are the problem...it's the parents who aren't paying any attention to their animals who are knocking over toddlers and swinging from the rafters like monkeys. I know for a fact that my youngest would be that kid, but I also know that I would be that mom who stepped in before he took over the joint. Difference...our kids aren't perfect angels...but we at least keep the reigns on them unlike some.
I had the exact same experience tonight. I was the only parent in there - there were 10+ "older" kids and they were running wild. My 3yo was terrified.
It sucks.
If a child can sit through a 45min meal, they don't need the play area. So I'm going w/ 7 y/o. Even nice older kids, if excited (i.e. loud or moving fast) frighten the younger kids in such an enclosed area.
I think it depends on the kids and the parents. I brought my 4.5 and 2.5 year olds to McDonalds to play with a friend (we were meeting halfway between). Both of them ended up in tears over the 'big' kids. My 4.5 year old because a 6/7 year old told her she couldn't play without her socks on (kind or true, but my fault not hers). Another group of 3 boys (between 6 and 8 years old) trapped my 2 year old in a tunnel and he was just crying and crying. I was shouting at them to let him out (hello parents!!) and finally had to crawl up there to get him. I guess I don't care how old the kids are if they are polite and gentle with younger kids. If not, as long as the parents are watching you'd hope it would be fine. Naughty kids with absent parents, absolutely doesn't matter how old, they should be out! Hope that made sense, running on empty after that day!
I say... Let kids be kids AND it takes a village to raise kids. I am the type (a teacher) would wouldn't mind marching in there and telling those kids to get out. I also wouldn't mind telling the adult with the kids to make them mind. I usually find that parents appreciate the help because they/we are all overwhelmed and busy. Occasionally, I have run into a parent who is not appreciative of my help. When and if that happened, I would tell the manager about the situation with an emphasis on "safety" and "lawsuit."
As for all of the stupid comments about what this company does or does not stand for, endorse, or believe... please read your bloggers reply handbook. I'm sure there is a section in there about STICKING TO THE QUESTION AND TOPIC AT HAND! good grief...
Stupid is as stupid types. Stay on topic, you are making yourselves look really DUMB!
If the kid physical fits then they can play provided they aren't any danger to smaller kids. I rarely let me girls in the petri dishes but when they do the minute a bunch of toddlers appear I typically kick them out. I am not going to be responsible for them accidently bumping a woobly unsupervised toddler.
My son I stop letting him at 4 because he was a damn monkey and would scale the things rather than play in them properly.
I hate that! We run into this at the mall playground which I take my kids to at times in the winter when they are getting all "Shining" on me. I have found the best strategy is to not say anything about their behavior but say, "Oh, is that your Mommy right there?" They normally straighten up because they do not want me to have to talk to their mom. It is even worse when their mom is just sitting their talking on a cell phone while their kid acts insane. I expect some craziness out of toddlers and little kids but when I 10 year old is on what is clearly a little kid play place and they are knocking them over it drives me insane. I normally try to be nonconfrontational in these situations but I have had to "step" in in a few situations.
Must be the ex-middle school teacher in me, but I'm the "it takes a village" mom who marches into play areas and tells any and every kid what to do. It is definitely about behavior, though, not age. Follow the rules, play nicely with the smaller kids and we are all good. And don't even THINK of giving me the "I'm gonna tell my mom" line cuz I'll march your little butt right on over to your mom and have YOU explain what you were doing wrong. Yep...I am that mean. My kids are embarrassed enough that now they only complain if there is REALLY a problem! ;)
Give me a break! This discussion is about age limit for play areas at chick-fil-a. How the HELL did it become religious??!! Some of you people are so stupid really , I think stupid should be painful just so you would know how stupid you are. Thank you and fuck you very much!!
I really find this one GREAT! I took my daughter (who is now almost 20) when she was 3 to Burger King and proceeded to let her play in the play area with her cousins when she came out the slide she was crying and as she got closer I could see that her clothes were wet and she smelled like urine! I decided right there and then, NEVER again! I now have another daughter and I can say that she has never been in one of those places! They are nasty!
I think our Chick fil a has a sign posted that clearly states no one under 6 allowed. Problem solved.
Those places are gross...but to answer the question. If you are acting like and ass you're too big. My kids played nice and were considerate of the smaller children and we just matured out of the germ pit (I'm a believer in herd immunity and think that's why they're so healthy now). I also took great pleasure in yelling (strictly correcting) the little asses and then glaring at the asses mom. Can't wait to be a grandmother to do it all over again
I think it depends on the behavior of the kid. My nine year old son plays with his younger cousins and is perfectly well behaved around younger kids.
Yours and mine both.
If the dead chicken was gay, is it still yummy?
I never knew Chik Fil A was anti gay...I only know their customer service is fantastic and their employees seem to love being at work...must say something for their culture. And I doubt they would discriminate, would they? Either way, I would think that a manager would calmly and quietly diffuse a bad situation in a play area if brought to their attention...
The bible is just a book of stories, like mother goose. Seriously. It was all handed down by word of mouth, so of course people will change it AND what most of America reads (and unfortunately believes) today is something a bunch of assholes put together to control the masses easier. Sorry I don't believe in the bible or religion.
I think depending on the structure, too old will vary. At my job, no one 5 years and older can play on the equipment. And we as employees make sure of it.
I just thought Jen's readers maybe a little educated, like her.
Really?? Lets sit down and eat an icecream instead of actively playing. Find a park lady. Take a shower...bath. but a 600 calorie ice cream to MAKE THEM HAPPY? Now don't get me wrong...I'm over weight myself but that is the last thing I want to do is have my kids go through what I went through as an overweight child. Yes, some places are dirtier than others. Just remember to teach your kids things like to stay away from the kid that's coughing and not to touch your face with dirty hands and everything will be okay. But feeding them massive amounts of calories (I worked at DQ in high school) is not the solution. Hmmmmm.....do you people boycott everywhere that has a few germs?
Elizabeth,
Before you attack people with your holier than thou attitude you would do well to remember that 1) not all religions practice the New Testament and 2) our country was also founded with slavery...should we go back to that as well? Take your ignorance and hatred elsewhere.
I would have had a very hard time not striking one of those older children that had my baby trapped and didnt listen to my repeated requests to let her out! Or one of the parents, if they could be located. Unacceptable!
Wow Jen! You think you're on a safe topic....just then.....SMACK! LOL! I guess it can happen at any time about any topic. I am quite sure you will have a whitty/genius response to this in your weekly wrap up, I look forward to reading it, as always. :)
Devan
Why don't they just put a ruler on a wall there? Sorta like at an amusement park. You know, those rulers that say "you can ride this ride if you're this tall or taller" so the ruler at a play place should say, "no child taller than this ruler is allowed".
Depends on the size of the child. My 10 year old, I keep him out of there. He's starting to outgrow it. My niece is 9 and is on the puny side, so she'll still fit and my smallest is 7 so she's fair game. Those child spaces do get crazy. Parental judgement goes a long way here.
As for the fundraisers, we don't usually go to them. I am not one for crowds and especially chick fil a. That place turns my stomach.
Wow, how did kids on a fast food playground turn into a religious debate. The people who have turned this into their own little soap box to stand on need to be punched in the throat...
I agree with TNMom - you had NO idea the Holy War that would start with this one, huh?! Our 3 local CFA's have a big cow holding a sign at the entrance that says you have to be shorter than THIS to play.
My almost 9 year old is just now reaching that height and he's HUGE for his age. He has 2 little brothers & if they are all playing well I don't rock the boat. But, as soon as he starts to get rowdy I do the whole routine of, "You are supposed to be setting the example..." and I yank him out.
The rule used to be 10, but since kids are so much bigger these days, I would say 8.
Jen wrote this blog entry to evoke emotion, whatever the emotion is is very individual. This blog spoke to me about my need to boycott haters, and that's exactly what I said. It has nothing to do with religion, religion should be kept out of politic's, that's the whole problem. The country was not founded on religion, it was founded and rules were made in what is a constitution, and anyone, or group who denies anyone their constitutional right is wrong. That is all I am saying. Do I need to be punched in the throat for having this emotion, well I guess if I am not free to feel whatever it is I felt after reading this blog, than yes punch away.
And for the record, I do not hate anyone!! Not even anti gay groups like Cfa, they have aright to their opinion, I just don't agree with them.
I don't think anyone should ever talk with hate, even against your enemy!
Ummm... this country was founded on the idea of religious FREEDOM. Much of the religious wording in the pledge and on the dollar bill and even our motto, In God We Trust, were not added until the 1950's and the red scare. Please do your homework. Besides - not everyone is a Christian. Why is there absolutely no respect for those who do not share the beliefs of Christians? I respect your beliefs, feel free to exhibit the same courtesy. Using the Bible to argue for discrimination is ridiculous, since not everyone believes in the Bible. And, a side note, God did not write the Bible. People did. I can't imagine Jesus, who saved a prostitute from stoning, would be happy with hate and discrimination against anyone.
Why does being a teacher give anyone the right to be the boss of the playground. Your state issued piece of paper makes you the defunct police. I parent my own children. And when other children get out of hand, we chose to leave. When someone speaks to my child I assume they are a preditor.
No point in writing anymore. I do respect other people's beliefs. I was only stating mine. I do not spew hatred and abomination against gay people or non Christians.
If you dont like gay people, don't be one! Live and let live.
I don't think it should be an age cut off as much as a height cut off.
How was that comment demeaning or rude? It was educational. Sure the company is a private company and can do whatever it wants- doesn't mean we shouldn't know about it or educate others about what they are doing with their money. If a private company went into illegal under-age sex trade, you'd be fine with that because they are a private company and can do whatever they want? I don't think so.
It was in no way a demeaning comment. I merely stated that I think it's sad that people will choose a chicken burger over the right's of people. No where did I say the OP was doing that (for all I know, the OP had no idea this was going on).
And Erin, it still doesn't make total sense for a private Christian company. I know plenty of private Christians and companies who do not feel the need to practice discriminating policies towards others. If your idea of Christianity is discrimination and that "makes total sense" to you, we have much bigger problems.
Wow. I love Chick-fil-a because they cook yummy chicken and I don't have to. I don't eat there because they do or don't support something. And my 9YO son is right on the edge of being too tall to play there. He will be heartbroken when he breaks the height barrier. As a responsible parent, I will teach him that we will be respectful and follow the rules. They aren't outrageous rules; they're designed to protect the little kids. I have no problem asking a rowdy child to calm down or find an employee to ask them to exit the play area. Nothing annoys me more than parents who don't parent.
And by the way- this thread is FULL of people forcing their beliefs on others- namely, the belief that children should be parented better and that they should never run, scream, or jump over other children. Y'all seem fine with forcing beliefs on others as long as you agree with them...typical.
I wish part of your respect that you are teaching your children also included respecting other's rights...unfortunately, probably not since by eating at Chick-fil-a, you allow them to use your money to stomp all over gay people's rights. Uggggg. Glad people have some principles (like respect for rules) but not others (like respect for rights).
I wish all of you who are trying to push your PERSONAL beliefs on other realize that you sound ignorant. On both sides of the table. You are not going to make someone change their beliefs by posting a snarky ass comment on a blog, and if you can, that person didn't have a very strong belief in the first place and you should tell them about a bridge for sale in Brooklyn. I hear the view is great! I want to punch anyone in the throat that thinks they are morally superior to me or better because they believe one way or the other. Now calm the fuck down.
Oh and another thing, if you are going to spout these morals and standards at least don't post as Anonymous.If you are so proud of yourself then let's see who you are you damn Keyboard Comando!
I am well known for getting rowdy or older children 86'd from play places. My 6 year old is a tiny guy - so I taught him the phrase "I will eat your soul if you mess with me." He hasn't been messed with in quite a while - weird huh?! ;)
I am also so tired of situations where I am once again dealing with other parents who refuse to parent their children. However, I seem to repeatedly encounter the "it's NOT my child who is misbehaving/rude/bullying/down right ignorant & rude because either their child is an absolute angel or he/she is expressing themselves or asserting their personalities as these wonderful parents have ingrained in them & far be it for me or ANYone else to try to usurp their authority or right of free expression by expecting their beloved child to curb their independent spirit & of my child cannot handle it that's my problem as a parent. I WISH I was kidding.
The absolute worst I ever encountered was at a playground at the zoo. These older kids (preteen & teenagers) were calling my child (7 at the time) a derogatory slur, and my 10 yr old nephew told them to knock it off. I was at the playground helping my 5 yr old onto a swing when this occurred. Apparently the other kids mother & grandmother witnessed this & guess what their response was??? "How dare you speak to my son that way. Who are you to correct him??? Now I have walked over at this point & am trying to absorb the ignorance unfolding in front of me. I said "excuse me but my nephew had every right to defend his cousin. The name calling was completely rude, ignorant, & out of line...BUT before I could finish she actually GAVE ME THE HAND & told me who the hell was I to tell her what names her child called my child or not? Again I WISH I was exaggerating. I was so shocked & just stunned by the unbelievable disgusting behavior I was witnessing I was actually speechless...Not only that but as this is happening numerous other adult members of this Manson family want to be seemed to crawl out of the playground equipment & I found myself surrounded by these disgusting excuses for human beings who were now physically scaring the hell out of me. I took my nephew & two small children the hell out of there as quickly as possible I only wish I had thought to whip out my cell phone & record the mess or reported them to the police, I honestly in the moment froze & then flew my children away from what felt like a very dangerous situation as quickly as possible. The worst part is that my nephew was so shaken by the event, all he kept saying was "auntie they were GROWNUPS how could they ACT like that & How could they defend their children acting like that???" I wish I had an answer to this day. This was the absolute worst experience but sadly it hasn't been the only time Ive encountered the "my angel can do whatever he or she damn pleases because this is a public place or because they are insane...who the freak knows...
Agreed.
I agree! I have the same situation where my child who would be too old to play will help her little sister and she is calm and helpful. Unfortunately there is no 'age' or 'size' that will fit for every situation, but obviously some bigger kids can cause harm to littler ones... it just depends on the child.
I want to hit the like button for both the post and the comment, but there isn't a like button. =)
I think its a behavior thing. I was allowed to play at the play-place until I was 10 and I have fond memories of them. We knew to let the little kids alone. Generally, we also went in the evenings, when it seemed like there were fewer toddlers out and about, too. But there are fewer and fewer places for bigger kids to play on playgrounds - it seems like there's a push that only preschoolers should be allowed playground equipment. Some of our local parks seem to be "8 and under" only.
I totally freaking agree!!
As a Chick-Fil-A team member, I can tell you that there should be some kind of sign posted on the door or window of Play Place. If all Chick-Fil-A's have the same requirements, it is based on height and sometimes age. If ten year old boys are in Play Place, they are at least too tall to be in there.
"I will eat your soul if you mess with me"?? That is BRILLIANT!!!
Blondegirl would you be upset if I started pining Christian views on you? General rule if you don't like people telling you what to think, stop doing it to others.
I think it depends on the age group that is appropriate for the actual equipment. I was a park on Friday with my 5-year old. I think she was the oldest child at the park and the sign said "Children 5 to 12". There was a playgroup gathering at the park and the kids were all in diapers - - so I'm assuming they were all under three. The moms were not too happy about my 5-year-old running through the place but it was actually their group that was out of place at this park. Follow the rules posted on the signs - - if there are no signs, ask the establishment and have them handle it.
Another example of a power hungry teacher. What a total control freak! She might be a teacher but she's also a total ass.
Another example of a power-hungry-control freak. So many teachers are - - and they hide behind their title of 'teacher'. Well guess what, the PARENTS are the guides to these children. The teachers are no more than paid-help (through my tax dollars). You are 'off duty' at the McDonald's playground so give it rest. You think we all adore you because your a teacher, well guess what? We don't - - we just kiss your ass to get our kids through your class.
If there was a dislike button, I'd press it. Why be so passive aggressive? Why not just be mature about it and speak to the parent directly? Moms get to chatting and sometimes don't realize what is going on - - or they are attending to another child. The only way you know what your children are doing at all times is if you are a helicopter parent hovering around them. If it's a case that the parent doesn't give a rats ass what the heck their child is doing, they you should leave and go somewhere where it is safe for your child. I just think there is a more grown-up way to handle the situation then shaming others. You need to grow a set and learn to talk to other parents. It's called communicating effectively!!! Seriously people, you can talk to other parents using kindness and respect at a public play place not at all feel guilty about it. It's also important to teach your children when it's okay to leave a place because you don't feel safe. There is a very valuable lesson there. There will be situations our children face where they don't feel safe - - they need to know leaving is an option for them. Seriously, it's a good lesson to learn every now and again.
I'm the mom that gets right in those big kids faces and says "settle down or get out!" Probably not the favorite mom on the playground but I do what I've gotta do to keep my kids safe while allowing them to have fun too.
Here is a crazy idea I haven't seen anyone mention: stop feeding your kids fast food and you won't have to worry about the play areas. Fast food is over processed sci fi food and it is killing our children. Our children are the first generation to have a shorter life expectancy than their parents. Take them to the park after a healthy home cooked meal.
We don't have CF here in the UK. We do have simillar play area type things though.
I'm afraid, some parents DO go to these places, let their kids run wild, and basically ignore them while they chat, play with their phones, or read magazines and drink coffee! I've nannied for 15 years, I've seen them, met them, dealt with their children terrorising my charges/my own kids. Not all parents do this, but a lot do, and it spoils it for everyone, when little Jack is being a thug, not sharing, is agressive, fighting with other kids, and generally being horrible, and the parent just ignores them. I was at a play area last week where a little boy aged 6 was going round, pushing littler children, taking toys, screaming at anyone who came near him on the bouncy castle, pushing kids off the slide, and ramming them with the push cars, and the mother spent most of her time on a "work" call, outside, while this was going on. She may have been desperate, brought him so she could work, because her childcare had fallen through, but after her little angel had rammed my son twice, with a push car, pulled another childs hair, kicked a toddler on the soft play area, and tried to bite another mother who gently asked him to play nice, I got stroppy and complained to the owner. She asked the lady to supervise her kid or leave.
Here, most places have an age limit. Our local one stops at 7 years. Older kids aren't allowed. We do have another one that has age "appropriate" sections for kids aged 2-11, but it is so filthy, and gets so manic, even with seperate sections for different ages, we avoid it like the plague.
I'm very glad the spring is here, in the UK, we can go outside, run about, go to the out door play ground, the botanical gardens etc, less germs, more space! :)
zebsmom you are ignorant and showing how unitelligent you are... next time you feel like you should say something just dont because your an idiot... people like you are what make this country as terrible as it is... you and others like u are turning this in to a modern day soddam and gormoa and will cause our destruction...
Were you in my town? I had almost the exact same experience. There were no parents only either a sister or babysitter who could not control the three 13 yr old boys that didn't know how to behave in public. I realized after watching them climb the walls in the play area that they were the cause of the loud yelling in the back of the dining area when we were ordering. It was so loud that I was thinking about leaving. I am surprised no one got hurt they way they were behaving. At one point a wonderful parent let their 18 mo old in with his older 5 yr old brother and the 18 mo old nearly got plowed down by the older kids. The babysitter/sister just laughed at their antics and did very little to get them to calm down or to even leave when things got out of hand.
Sounds like you may have encountered some of the anonymous teacher haters from above. These, so called, parents who are the only ones who are allowed to tell their precious children what to do. They do SUCH an excellent job of brainwashing their children!
Ignorant parent try to create and continue this ignorance in their children. I wish I knew why...
There shouldn't need to be a posted "cut off" age or height, that should be common sense, and any kids in there should be following the rules and using common courtesy - but we all know how uncommon sense and courtesy are these days. There should definitely be some parenting/supervision going on for each child there - it is not a daycare center. Of course, the ppl who have kids who act like that are exactly the people who DON'T watch or discipline them in the first place, usually, and they will get pissed if you do say something to the kid or to them. Did any of you read the story where an 11 and 13 year old girl cut off a 3 year old's pony tail in a McDonalds playland....http://www.imperfectparent.com/topics/2012/06/24/girl-offered-lighter-sentence-if-cuts-off-own-hair-in-court/
the bigger girls asked an employee for scissors and then when they didn't get any, walked to a dollar store and bought some and came back and did it! Who was not watchign them, and who was not watching the 3 year old either?!?!?
AND WHY would a 13 and 11 year old not have enough empathy/conscience/sense/fear of repercussions to know not ot do that????
Definitely a parenting issue, not a fast food place issue!
Well that escalated quickly.
if the food is good, ill eat there. couldn't care less about the rest.. as far the age limit,old enough to be an ass,old enough to get it kicked
Bottom line is parent need to watch their kids and teah them proper behavior. Just because you let your kids jump all over your couch at home the outside your front dor area calls for different measures. My son is 10 and he knows better than to make little kids cry or watch out for him. he watches out for them or he just stops playing if there are a lot of kids. If you kids is older they need to look out for little kids and be more helpful in the play area. If your kid can't do that then they can't go in. It's common sense really but as I see in some previous post people are lacking this.Good Luck world.
I think 10 or 11 is not too old IF they have younger siblings playing. I have an 11 yr old boy who still plays in the playplace at mcdonalds WITH the 9,7,and 5 yr olds. If 12 was my YOUNGEST child I would say no, but he still likes to play with his younger siblings. When his sister is 10 and he is 12 the 2 of them probably wont play, but just the 8 and 6 yr olds.
REALLY? That wasn't the question. Everything is fine in moderation. Once or twice a month won't kill them!
I hate to say it but all the same germs are at school. You can't avoid germs so may as well let them be kids. If they get sick, it builds up their immune systems.
Hey Anonymous(s) ! I'm not a teacher, but you need to lay off of them because 99% of them are SAINTS! I student taught for one semester and decided raising other people's children wasn't for me. I say "raising" because many of the kids I dealt with needed to be taught respect and self-control more than they needed to learn how to write a comprehensible paragraph. Sadly, these things SHOULD be taught at home, but often they are not. If you really feel like that about teachers, I suggest you both start homeschooling and see what the "paid-help" has to deal with every day. YOUR hellion children (whom I can only assume are as disrespectful & entitled as you are). Not only do they have to deal with your children, but also 30 other people's children. I'm sorry if you've had a bad experience with one or two teachers, but don't lump all teachers into the same boat. The majority of them are not "power hungry", they are kind, compassionate, overworked and underpaid. Until you've walked in their shoes I'd show a little more respect for the people your children spend 70% of their time with. I'm a fitness instructor, not a teacher, but you better believe I'd be talking to you kid and then marching him/her over to you if he/she was bullying my kid in a playscape. I have no problem setting a boundary when it comes to the safety of my child. If you aren't watching your kid and my child is injured as a result, you WILL be hearing about it.
Kelly @ Dandelion Dreams, that is my exact reaction. I was laughing so hard when I read your comment. My first thought was is this really happening, stay on topic people.
The kids are too old when they can't have fun playing on the equipment as it was intended.
it's more about demonstrating appropriate social interaction and consideration for others than it is about being a specific age. If a kid is obviously crossing the line, making the space unenjoyable or unsafe for others then his parent should haul him out of there and teach him to do better.
I am a Christian and I know saying that will imiedialtly put up peoples defenses. I want to state here that I don't agree with the way we all treat eachother in this country. Just because we don't all agree with eachother on every hotbutton issue, we think we need to look at people who don't agree with us as the enemy. That in my humble opinion is completely wrong. The one thing I have learned in my personal walk with God is that we are to love! Period! when we put eachother down and call eachother names we just give the real enemy (Satan) exactly what he wants! A nation divided instead of strong. People fighting over things they can't change instead of loving eachother and all our differences. I don't know about anyone else but I really do believe that if Jesus were hear today he would say he loves everyone equally no matter their race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs, or personal sins and I think we would do well to follow his example!
Agreed! I have an 11 year old and an almost 9 year old. Both boys, and both know their manners and how to treat people kindly. They also know what is acceptable behavior and play around others based on their age, maturity and ability. They do not jump over little ones, knock them down, or take anything away from them for their own amusement! Actually, the only reason they would be in one of these play places at their age is to help their little cousins stay safe from crazy kids.
Wow... just wow
This was an article about a mom taking her kid on a school trip.
A MOM. TAKING HER KID ON A SCHOOL TRIP.
Did Jen mention anything about homophobia or religion at all? NO.
That is not what this article was about. This comment thread is getting ridiculous.
Please post things that are relevant to the article. Thanks!
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