Having spent over 12 years in the restaurant industry, I’ve donned various uniforms and served an array of dishes, from ramen to pizza. My experiences have spanned establishments I adored—largely due to the camaraderie of the staff—and others I couldn’t stand. Throughout countless challenging shifts, I’ve gained profound insights into human behavior and social dynamics, likely more than from any other aspect of my life.
In my time waiting tables, I’ve witnessed emotional breakdowns, engagements, and breakups. I’ve had to call law enforcement on unruly customers, played the role of therapist for some, and even attempted matchmaking during shifts. A recurring issue I’ve observed involves how parents manage their children while dining out. Therefore, I’d like to share some essential guidelines for families visiting restaurants.
1. Role Modeling Matters
Observe how individuals behave in a restaurant setting, and you’ll gain insight into their character. Simple gestures like making eye contact, smiling, and expressing gratitude can greatly enhance the dining experience. However, I often see patrons behaving like entitled creatures unleashed from a zoo, lacking basic civility. I’ve had menus thrown at me, heard derogatory comments from parents, and even faced inappropriate advances—all while trying to provide good service. Stress and anxiety do not justify disrespecting servers, especially in front of children, who absorb these behaviors like sponges. It’s crucial to demonstrate proper etiquette and kindness.
2. Restaurants Are Not Playgrounds
Many establishments I’ve worked in are small and crowded, yet some parents seem to think it’s acceptable to let their children roam freely while servers navigate through tight spaces carrying hot food and beverages. We are not responsible for supervising your children. Allowing kids to run around is not only inconsiderate but also dangerous. If a child cannot remain seated or if you wish to disengage with your phone, please secure them in a high chair.
3. Tipping Etiquette
Tipping is a significant aspect of restaurant work. I’ve encountered wealthy patrons who still tip poorly, leaving as little as 5% to 8% on the bill. Given that many servers rely solely on tips for their income, it’s essential to leave at least a 15% gratuity for good service. If dining with children, who typically require more attention and cleanup, aim for a tip of at least 20%. If you can’t manage that, consider staying home or choosing a fast-food option.
4. Maintain Table Cleanliness
Alongside our role as servers, we are not your cleaning staff. If your children create a mess beyond the usual crumbs and empty cups, please assist in tidying it up. Imagine if I came to your workplace and allowed my child to throw spaghetti around—would that be acceptable? Your child’s mess reflects your responsibility as a parent. Please respect the dining environment by taking care of it.
Thank you for considering these points. For more information on parenting and dining etiquette, check out related resources, including Women’s Health on Pregnancy and Intracervical Insemination. Additionally, you can find tools for home insemination at Make a Mom.
Summary:
Dining out with children can be a rewarding experience when done respectfully. Parents should model good behavior, maintain control over their children, tip generously, and clean up after their kids. By following these guidelines, families can ensure a pleasant dining atmosphere for everyone involved.