Bars are no place for children

Bars in Brooklyn, New York, are in the middle of what is described as a heated debate as to whether or not patrons should be allowed to bring their babies into bars.

This is an issue that is not limited to just Brooklyn, but the solution is the same in bars all across the country.

Children, no matter how old, should not be allowed into bars. The reason is simple: there is a time and place for everything and the time and place to drink, be loud and otherwise act a fool happens to be a bar.

There are many things that take place in a bar that are not suitable for all audiences. But these actions are OK (if they are legal) because they take place in a bar. A place that exist solely for the purpose of housing these actions.

Even if parents take their children to upscale bars and refrain from any questionable behavior, there is still potential to make other customers uncomfortable. People should be able to drink, and get drunk, without worrying about whether or not their actions will offend a small child, or their parents, while in a bar. There are some things people may do that they are acceptable in front of adults but not children. Customers shouldn't have to decide what those actions are while in establishments banned to those under 21.

Furthermore, if 21-month-old babies are permitted into establishments with a 21 and older age limit, where does the line get drawn for children being allowed into the bar?

If two-year-olds can come into a bar with their parents, can three year olds? Five year olds? What about 10 year olds? If one person can bring their young child into a bar, then why can't someone bring their 17-year-old with them?

Allowing babies into bars opens up a huge gray area in an area where there shouldn't be any gray.

21 means 21.