As I sat by the pond, watching my four-year-old experiment with floating, I witnessed a recurring scenario. During swim lessons, there are designated areas where swimming is not allowed, yet it seems that some parents believe their children should be the exception. Today, a mother was informed by a lifeguard to keep her children outside the buoyed area. She replied, “We have to leave in 30 minutes, and they want to play on the dock—they’re not bothering anyone.” In reality, they were running through a swim class filled with toddlers, thus disregarding the established rules.
Increasingly, it appears that many parents feel entitled to bypass rules—whether spoken or implied—when it comes to their children. However, having a child does not grant you or them special privileges. Acting as though your little one is above the rules only reflects poorly on you. Here are some situations where parents often display this sense of entitlement:
1. Movie Theaters
Bringing your three-month-old to a late-night horror movie is inconsiderate. Your child will likely wake and disrupt others, so consider hiring a babysitter instead. Enjoying a film in a theater is not a right, and disturbing others is simply rude.
2. Bars
It’s astonishing to see parents bring young children to adult-oriented spaces, especially in urban areas. Why would you want your child in such an environment? Leave your kids at home if you’re planning to visit a venue meant for adults.
3. Inappropriate Dining Venues
There are countless family-friendly restaurants available. Opt for those instead of expecting your child to behave in a fine dining establishment.
4. Age/Height Restrictions
When a venue has specific safety requirements, arguing about your child’s eligibility only highlights your entitlement. These rules exist for a reason, and enforcing them is not a personal attack against you.
5. Adult-Only Events
It can be incredibly frustrating to host a gathering labeled as “adults only” only to have someone ignore that rule. If you can’t find childcare, it’s better to forgo the event than to impose your children on others.
6. Public Transportation
While children are welcome on planes and trains, how you manage them is crucial. Be proactive in keeping your child entertained to avoid disturbing fellow passengers. No one minds kids if they are being cared for appropriately.
In summary, you and your child are not uniquely special. Being a considerate parent—and indeed a decent person—means respecting rules and the comfort of others. Your child will benefit from these lessons, and you won’t be labeled as “that parent” everyone avoids.
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Keyphrase: Parenting Etiquette
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