Family Was Shocked When A Stranger Slammed This Note Down On Their Table During Dinner

We sometimes hear of a stranger going out of their way to do something kind for someone else. Sadly, more often we hear of them berating or belittling each other out in the world. For example, a mom from Idaho received an unkind note from the table behind them explaining that her screaming child had ruined their dinner.

Encountering A Judgmental Stranger

Katie Leach was having a family meal at Texas Roadhouse when her 10-month-old began fussing. Shortly after, a stranger sitting at the table behind them, came over and gave her a note. “The one sitting directly behind me got up slammed the pink flyer in front of me and went and sat back down while her and her friend were chuckling,” Katie explained at the time of the incident.

The note said: “Thank you for ruining our dinner with your screaming kid! Sincerely, the table behind you”

After a moment, Katie turned to the two women, including the stranger who’d given her the note to apologize. Katie tried explaining that her son was only ten months old and was still learning. One of the judgmental strangers critically responded that her children and grandchildren “never behave like that.”

Katie spoke to the manager on duty, who happened to be a father himself. He insisted that the two strangers finish their meals and leave promptly after. When he paid for Katie’s meal, the manager took his kindness one step further and told her that she and her son were welcome back anytime.

Representatives Represent

In an interview, a Texas Roadhouse representative explained, “We were voted one of the loudest restaurants by Consumer Reports. We are proud to be loud. If you want to hear clinking wine glasses and clinking forks, then this probably isn’t the place for you.” With that said, there are plenty of restaurants in which a screaming child would be problematic for example, 5-star restaurants or steakhouses may have a minimum age requirement for patrons. However, chain restaurants with a family atmosphere tend to be more accommodating to parents with young children. Therefore, they aren’t likely to turn them away because their children, toddlers, or even infants are making noise.

Family Friendly Places to Eat

Restaurants like Texas Roadhouse, Cheesecake Factory, Chili’s, Ihop, Red Robin, and even McDonald’s have a family-friendly atmosphere that welcomes kids of all ages, with McDonald’s actually having indoor/outdoor play spaces. Most of these chains are known for being loud and creating a family environment where all are welcome. Other examples of places that may be great family-friendly restaurants, where strangers won’t complain about children, may include local mom-and-pop shop pizzerias or other restaurants that are family owned.

Quiet Meals for a Stranger

In contrast, there are plenty of reasons that someone may want to be somewhere a little quieter. Someone may prefer a child-free meal because they themselves struggle with sensory issues. They may be early childhood educators and have had a long week caring for numerous children. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of places to go or eat that are child-free.

Many internet users, all strangers to Katie and her family, understood her plight. One commented, “Why would anyone go to Texas Roadhouse if they want a quiet meal? Stupid lady, stupid complaint.” Meanwhile, another said, “People are so ignorant. How dare a baby get excited and express himself in the only way he knows how. You want a quiet dinner, go to a quiet restaurant.”

In addition to restaurants, plenty of places have age requirements if that’s something you and your spouse, friend group, or work colleagues require. For example, many hotels have a curfew for children to use the pool or hot tub. Other examples may include day spas, bars, adult entertainment clubs, casinos, or R-rated movies.

Children Make Noise

Anyone who’s ever cared for a child knows that they make a range of noises, some cute and soft. Meanwhile, others are loud, high-pitched, and altogether unpleasant. On the other hand, small children are learning about everything their bodies can do, including the noises they can make. Furthermore, these sounds are a child’s only form of communication, not to mention, how little their brains comprehend about the world around them and what it means to be quiet or “considerate”.

Therefore, it’s not uncommon to hear small children making all kinds of sounds. While it is a parent’s responsibility to help guide their child into making responsible choices, there are some instances in which a child’s noise level or awareness can’t be controlled. After all, they’re just tiny people, and people often struggle with a feeling of being controlled.

Agreeing with the Disgruntled Stranger

Despite this, some still feel that it’s unacceptable to have a noisy infant, toddler, or child out in public settings such as restaurants. One commented in favor of the stranger who presented Katie with the note. “If your child has a “new thing” of yelling, maybe get your food to go. Don’t be ignorant and let your child yell through dinner, take your child outside like a responsible parent,” he explained.

Another user commented: “I’ve been in many public places where the kids are screaming and the adults either think it’s cute or ignore it. Maybe this parent should use it as a teaching opportunity for themselves. Have some respect for those around you and remove the screaming child.”

Regardless of anyone’s personal opinion, we all have to learn to coexist with each other, which may, at times require a stranger to be patient with another stranger. In the meantime, having separate options for single adults verse a whole family is a great way to find a healthy balance for everyone.

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