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Playscapes Rock
People without children may not be able to relate to this, in
fact, they may hate it....but anyone with a kid under the age of
ten will understand this one. Playscapes at restaurants and
other businesses are GREAT.
I have noticed a new phenomenon that makes dining out with kids
much more enjoyable for my wife and I (AND anyone who might be
seated near us in a restaurant). More restaurants are popping up
that have playscapes for the children.
It used to be just McDonald’s and other fast-food chains that
had play areas....but now there are family oriented
establishments that include fun areas where the kids can go
after eating half their order of chicken nuggets. Meanwhile, the
parents can continue to sit and finish their meal ... while
keeping a watchful eye on the little ones.
In my home town of Austin, Texas, a family dining establishment,
Waterloo Ice House has a location (and another currently under
construction) with a great playscape, sandbox and plenty of
grass on which to run around. The food is very good, the
atmosphere is pleasant, and we actually get to finish our meals
when dining out with our two children.
In addition, two local supermarkets, that have restaurants, also
have play areas. Central Market (North) and the new Whole Foods
Landmark Store are great places to meet other families for a
nice meal. The kids can eat, and then play, while the parents
can share upscale food and adult conversation. (Whole Foods has
the picnic area and playscape on the roof with live music on
Friday and Saturday).
In today's minivan and SUV dominated world, I think more
businesses should have kid friendly activities built in (Hyatt
Hotels and Resorts actually have "Camp Hyatt" at all of their
properties). I am thinking that airports, shopping centers,
music stores and the like should have child areas ...... but I
know that would annoy the heck out of tons of people without
kids. I can hear them now!!!
About the author:
Thom Singer is the author of "Some Assembly Required: How to
Make, Keep and Grow Your Business Relationships". He can be
reached at thom@thomsinger.com.
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