by Ferg Fontaine

Created on: July 19, 2009   Last Updated: July 25, 2009

Should parents bring their baby to a movie theater? This is hardly a reasonable question; but of course not if you haven't figured this one out. A trip to the movies for most is strictly time away from the monotany of every day life. Going to a movie is a moment of reprieve, a time to rest and relax without a dish to wash or dinner to cook; and usually something looked forward to by all. Whether a date with your mate, a night out with friends or something to do to kill the free time you have been graciously handed for the day.

Some get a babysitter and escape their own little critters, just for a couple hours. Lets forget for a moment that this may be a self indulged moment for parents of little ones, let us consider the baby who one would contemplate bringing to a movie theater. Do baby's enjoy sitting in the dark with very loud music and voices speaking from the huge screen in front of the room? Do baby's naturally like to sit still for 2 to 3 hours being quiet so mom and dad can pay attention to something else besides them? Oh, and do baby's enjoy watching mommy and daddy eat and drink sweets and treats that are forbidden for them?

Now let us consider the others in the theater that have chosen to go out for a date, time out with friends or maybe just seeing the movie they have waited all year to see; so do they want to hear your baby crying because he is miserable that you have brought him to this dreaded event. Do others want to experience your clammering for trinkets, toys, treats and getting up and down in front of them trying to calm or simply entertain your upset baby? I can answer all of these redundant questions with a resounding NO. I have three sons, and had them in 4 years; I would have never considered bringing them to a movie theater. It is not fair to them, to the others in the theater and it's not fair to you, the parents.

I love children, love baby's, toddlers, and teens; but there is never a time that bringing baby's to the movie theater is acceptable or admonished. I hope you will consider this notice when in the future you find yourself considering the idea, don't do it, I beg of you; the world will thank you for it and I will honor you for it. Now stay home and enjoy your baby! And I mean that with all of the sincerity and love I have in my heart.

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