An Australian mom has defended criticizing a restaurant over its policy regarding “well-behaved children” after others argued she was the one in the wrong.
Brie Rockliffe was left shocked when she spotted an unusual sign in the window of Laguna Blu Bar & Dining in Port Stephens that read:
“We appreciate well-behaved children, and require them to remain seated at all times,” it reads. Thanks for understanding.”
But after sharing her thoughts on the restaurant’s policy on TikTok, the mom found not many agreed with her.
“I completely understand where the restaurant is coming from and I never intended my video to attack them personally,” she told news.com.au.
“I just thought the wording of the sign was a bit blunt and sparked an interesting conversation about how parents are made to feel when dining out with kids.
“I think most parents get that restaurants need respectful behaviour, but expecting children to ‘remain seated and well behaved’ at all times feels unrealistic especially for toddlers.
“It can come across as if there’s no room for kids to just be kids.”
Brie had been met with a lot of negativity when she took to social media, stating: “Breakfast with a side of unrealistic expectations. Thoughts? LIKE WHAT THE ACTUAL?”
However, the majority of commenters didn’t agree with her, instead siding with the restaurant.
“If you can’t keep your children seated, don’t take them out,” one snapped.
“God forbid you would have to teach your child table manners and how to behave respectfully in public,” another said sarcastically.
“As a parent with two young children, I agree with this requirement. We’re raising the next generation …” said a third.
Many even criticised Brie for her stance.
“Well-behaved children who don’t run around a cafe, while wait staff are carrying around hot meals and drinks, is unrealistic?” a commenter asked.
“I genuinely don’t see how this is an unrealistic expectation?” a second agreed.
“Concerning someone thinks that isn’t realistic,” said another.
Some parents did agree with Brie, stating that the sign creates an environment that is unaccepting of kids and families.
“I would honestly leave. I think it’s rude of a business to have a sign like that. It just screams ‘we don’t like kids’,” one person shared.
“Kids will be kids … they will walk around (with supervision), they will explore, and they will be loud! Kids are allowed to be existent, while in a respectful manner,” another said.
Brie sympathized with those who shared her stance, adding she’s had enough of parents feeling unwelcome in public spaces.
“The response to the video has shown how some parents share that feeling [of] wanting to take their kids out, but often feeling judged or unwelcome,” she said.
But, in a statement to news.com.au, Laguna Blu’s owner assured that this is not the case at his venue.
“Laguna Blu Bar & Dining welcomes families and children and is proud to offer a variety of kids’ meals and family-friendly dining options,” he said.
He shared that the note isn’t to prevent kids from having fun, but rather to ensure their safety around the pool and hot dishes.
“Recently, a notice displayed in our restaurant has drawn some online attention. The purpose of this sign is purely to promote safety and comfort for all guests. As our venue is located within a resort and surrounded by an infinity pool, the outdoor flooring can occasionally become slippery. In addition, we serve hot dishes, such as meals in cast iron skillets and beverages including wine and cocktails. For this reason, we kindly ask parents to ensure their children remain seated and supervised during their visit,” he said.
“We want to make it clear that Laguna Blu is a welcoming space for everyone. Our goal has always been to provide a safe, relaxed, and enjoyable experience for all our guests.”
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