Making space for children
One of my vivid childhood memories is of mundane trips that my mom and I would make to Vancity, the local bank. While she did her banking, I remember always playing with a Fischer Price phone at a kids table full of toys located near the tellers. Back in the 1980s, these kids tables were often found in doctor and dentist offices. But, I rarely see them now that I have kids of my own.
That's why I was impressed when I walked into the new vegan bakery hotspot in my neighbourhood, To Live For, and found that the owner, Erin Ireland, had put a large kids table right in the centre of the bakery's seating area. The little table has crayons, colouring sheets, toys, and a collection of books about acceptance and kindness toward animals and humans.
Even though the bakery consistently has a lineup of vegan influencers out the door, eager to try Erin's vegan treats and sit in the small seating area, she has taken a large piece of real estate and designated it for little customers! I've been there several times with my kids and the table is always full of children colouring, reading and stacking blocks.
I know a lot of businesses are actively looking for ways to discourage children from being in their establishment. Erin has proven that you can welcome children and still have a lineup of hip influencers out your door. If businesses want to welcome families, all they have to do is set up a small table, some toys, and art supplies. It's low cost and may even be good for their bottom line.
