You start noticing different stuff

Dec 31·1 min read

Before kids I never paid attention to playgrounds or family friendly restaurants or how many outlets a coffee shop has. Now those are the first things I notice about any place. My brain just auto-scans for kid stuff. Also I can't watch certain movies or shows anymore because I think about my kids and how they'd react to it. It's like a completely different lens on the world that I didn't choose but can't turn off.

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Comments(6)

AAndy T.RegularJan 2

You start rating restaurants purely on whether they have a good kids menu and if the noise level won't make the baby freak out. Gone are the days of just picking a place because the food is good.

MMarcusNew DadJan 3

The playground observation is huge. I used to walk past them and never thought twice. Now I'm mentally comparing mulch depth and equipment safety because my kid is gonna want to play on everything.

TThomasNew DadJan 3

Also started noticing which restaurants have the most awkward family seating situations. You'll pick a booth over a table even if the table is better because containment matters when your toddler is learning to feed himself.

ZZack M.RegularJan 3

I'm at the point where I can spot a good changing table from a mile away. Also started reading Yelp reviews for the family bathroom situation. Never did that before.

MMatt W.RegularDec 31

I notice diaper changing stations in the most random places now and I'm always like 'oh that's useful' even if I don't need it that second. It's like a reflex.

PPaul M.New DadJan 3

The outlet thing is so specific but so true. Now when I visit somewhere my brain is like okay where's the high chair, where's the bathroom, how many power outlets are there, is this place actually stroller friendly?