I put something like this in another thread, but can't find it, so I'll try to give an abridged version here - I took my 9, 11 and 13 year olds to see Quadrophenia earlier this year. They loved it. But, each enjoyed it in a different way. (one sat almost the entire show, one stood, one was up and down). The next morning, it was actually the one that sat almost the entire show that woke up singing - Can you see the real me? Can ya? Can ya?
It does depend on the kid, obviously (though 5/6 seems young to me. My 6 yo is staying home even though he's the air guitar wizard).
1) I would time things, so you have time to head to the bathroom and get something to eat/drink just before show time. I would not sit in your seats with a drink for very long before show time, or you are guaranteed a bathroom break. Plus, the longer they sit BEFORE they come on, the longer you are trying to have them sit to make it through the show (they may still need a break, but isn't it better if they weren't sitting for a half hour BEFORE the show started? - and forget the opening act if there is one). Depending on what date you go, you'll have an idea of when they come on.
2) don't bother people around you. Yeah, it's the first show. Wonderful (I am taking my kids to their first PJ show this fall, also). But, why even lecture folks around you? Folks will do what they are going to do (as they should). They don't need to hear from daddy before the show. They are aware there are kids. You've been to shows before. If your kid is not prepared to handle that stuff, then don't bring them.
I do laugh at the folks with the smoke, drunks, fights. Do you think we keep our kids in a bubble and they've never seen these things? The fact is, the 5 year old probably won't distinguish what type of smoke they are smelling. Don't expect folks to worry about your kids. Let the kids enjoy the show how they see fit. And, isn't that how you act every day with your kids anyway?
I will admit I did one thing at the Quad show I never do - during Tea & Theater (closer), I started heading for the exit, so we could get out quick (we did stay, we just stood near the exit and got out ahead of the crowd). They slept on the way home, so they probably got as much sleep as they normally do. Not sure where this midnight stuff is coming from. Are we expecting rain delays in the arenas this fall? Or are we forced to keep our kids up until they reach their bed?
Sorry. The world doesn't work the way you tell it to.
I do laugh at the folks with the smoke, drunks, fights. Do you think we keep our kids in a bubble and they've never seen these things?
Wow. At 5 and 6 years old????
Yeah, you should be protecting your kids from this stuff.
Ha, ha, ha. So, you think a 5 year old has never seen anyone smoke? Do you think at a concert they are going to distinguish? They might say - that smells different and move on.
As for people drinking - you've never had a family get together?
As for fights - I guess if it's an only child, they may never have seen a fight. Otherwise, they'll be happy to be an observer and not a participant.
I guess you are right - if someone comes up and punches my kid in the back of the head, I'd have made the wrong choice. Then again, if a car comes up my street too fast when he's riding a bike, I may have made a bad decision, too.
At the Quad concert I mentioned, they did see a fight. Well, actually, they saw a "hit and run." I didn't see it, my boys did. They asked me if I saw it. I said no. They described it and we moved on with our lives. Humans are actually generally good. As I left, they guy in the row behind me said, "good job" as I left. It depends on the kid. I wouldn't take a 5 year old (as I said - I have one - he didn't go to Quad, and he's not going to PJ even though at home he's really into both). But, to each his own. Don't expect others to act differently.
Sorry. The world doesn't work the way you tell it to.
i'm glad there's ga now precisely for reasons like this.
The problem is that kids still end up in the pit. I was at a Flogging Molly concert where some lady brought her 4 year old daughter into the pit. Everyone was like, "Are you serious?!" That kid could have gotten seriously hurt.
Chicago 2000 : Chicago 2003 : Chicago 2006 : Summerfest 2006 : Lollapalooza 2007 : Chicago 2009 : Noblesville (Indy) 2010 : PJ20 (East Troy) 2011 : Wrigley Field 2013 : Milwaukee (Yield) 2014 : Wrigley Field 2016
i'm glad there's ga now precisely for reasons like this.
The problem is that kids still end up in the pit. I was at a Flogging Molly concert where some lady brought her 4 year old daughter into the pit. Everyone was like, "Are you serious?!" That kid could have gotten seriously hurt.
All my blabbering aside - I do think GA is absolutely insane for a pre-teen unless you are standing near the back. If you think you should bring a 4 yo "into the fray" and/or expect folks to act like it's Gymboree, then your child should be taken from you.
I purposely chose GA for Brooklyn 1 (and go lucky) b/c I knew I'd need to get seats for Saturday night to bring my sons.
Sorry. The world doesn't work the way you tell it to.
just dont be mad at me when I spark up the ganja.
i paid for my seat just like you paid for yours, and this is a rock concert after all.
you may want to plan your bathroom breaks accordingly...
I'll be sparking up another one around the first encore
Mansfield, MA - Jul 02, 2003; Mansfield, MA - Jul 03, 2003; Mansfield, MA - Jul 11, 2003; Boston, MA - Sep 29, 2004; Reading, PA - Oct 01, 2004; Hartford, CT - May 13, 2006; Boston, MA - May 24, 2006; Boston, MA - May 25, 2006; Hartford, CT - Jun 27, 2008; Mansfield, MA - Jun 28, 2008; Mansfield, MA - June 30, 2008; Hartford, CT - May 15, 2010; Boston, MA - May 17, 2010; [EV - Providence, RI - June 15, 2011; EV - Hartford, CT - June 18, 2011]; Worcester, MA - Oct. 15, 2013; Worcester, MA - Oct. 16, 2013; Hartford, CT - Oct. 25, 2013; Boston, MA - August 5, 2016; Boston, MA - August 7, 2016...
just dont be mad at me when I spark up the ganja.
i paid for my seat just like you paid for yours, and this is a rock concert after all.
you may want to plan your bathroom breaks accordingly...
I'll be sparking up another one around the first encore
No problem. And if some of your 2nd hand wafts in my direction, I might take a couple of deeper breaths.
Sorry. The world doesn't work the way you tell it to.
My personal take...
Spring for the babysitter and you and your wife have a let your hair down, have a night out at the gig.
Why?
Because i think a good age is about 13. The kids are becoming their own person by then. they find their own musical tastes and break away from the music of their parents. If by 13, they want to go to a Pearl Jam gig, it's their choice and not something to do in order to please you and spend some time with you.
And as people have said, 13ish is a good age because they can pretty much take care of themselves. They are well experienced in riding bikes and skateboards and are playing tackle football with their friends and know the limits of their pain thresholds. And more than that, they are beginning to understand the music and songs.
The worst things i've seen parents do with their young kids?
Pimp them out by holding them up with a sign in order to get a guitar pick or something. Holding up kids has replaced flashing C grade tits at the singers for attention. That, and dragging a little kid into a pit and telling them, 'Don't worry... people will let you (me) up to the front'. That only works when the kid needs to be passed to the rail to get dumped to the other side and dragged off to first aid because he cannot breathe in the pit.
i've also seen parents drag their kids to a gig and make them sit through the entire show, when their shortened attention span wears thin and they want to walk around the arena and play on the escalator and try to get you to buy them a churro. Because that's what little kids like to do... play on escalators while eating churros.
I think it's okay to bring a kid to a gig if you have seats, bring earplugs and are willing to leave when they get cranky and want to go home to resume their 'Call Of Duty' game on the computer in their room. Other than that... don't bring them because you want to bring them. If you do, you should be willing to play on the escalator and eat a lot of churros while the band is playing on stage.
Allen Fieldhouse, home of the 2008 NCAA men's Basketball Champions! Go Jayhawks!
Hail, Hail!!!
My personal take...
Spring for the babysitter and you and your wife have a let your hair down, have a night out at the gig.
Why?
Because i think a good age is about 13. The kids are becoming their own person by then. they find their own musical tastes and break away from the music of their parents. If by 13, they want to go to a Pearl Jam gig, it's their choice and not something to do in order to please you and spend some time with you.
And as people have said, 13ish is a good age because they can pretty much take care of themselves. They are well experienced in riding bikes and skateboards and are playing tackle football with their friends and know the limits of their pain thresholds. And more than that, they are beginning to understand the music and songs.
The worst things i've seen parents do with their young kids?
Pimp them out by holding them up with a sign in order to get a guitar pick or something. Holding up kids has replaced flashing C grade tits at the singers for attention. That, and dragging a little kid into a pit and telling them, 'Don't worry... people will let you (me) up to the front'. That only works when the kid needs to be passed to the rail to get dumped to the other side and dragged off to first aid because he cannot breathe in the pit.
i've also seen parents drag their kids to a gig and make them sit through the entire show, when their shortened attention span wears thin and they want to walk around the arena and play on the escalator and try to get you to buy them a churro. Because that's what little kids like to do... play on escalators while eating churros.
I think it's okay to bring a kid to a gig if you have seats, bring earplugs and are willing to leave when they get cranky and want to go home to resume their 'Call Of Duty' game on the computer in their room. Other than that... don't bring them because you want to bring them. If you do, you should be willing to play on the escalator and eat a lot of churros while the band is playing on stage.
His 9 year old is too young to go to a concert b/c he wants to eat churros, but has a Call of Duty game.
Sorry. The world doesn't work the way you tell it to.
Lot of good suggestions here, kind of goes to show that there's no one size fits all approach to the decision you're facing.
I think that first and foremost, it depends on the kid. I have a seven year old son that I cannot wait to bring to a Pearl Jam concert but I won't bring him for at least a couple more years. This doesn't mean I don't think younger kids shouldn't be at shows, I just know my son and know that the noise, crowd and 12-1am evening is not something he can handle at this point. That said, I have seen kids his age and slightly older have a ball at concerts (PJ included).
Yes, one drunk prick can ruin the night but you're smarter than a drunk asshole and by now already know how to protect your kid. You've been to more than a few shows and are more than likely aware of how to avoid a disappointing situation. Imo, bring the kid (if you believe she is ready and up for it), get her a plate of nachos and a soda and hit the seats and crowd watch from there. Feel free to tell your neighbors that this is your young daughter's first Pearl Jam show and though you don't want them to hesitate enjoying themselves to the fullest, please keep her in mind. Most adults will appreciate and respect the situation and likely, with a PJ crowd, engage her and make the evening that much more enjoyable. I, for one, LOVE seeing kids enjoying themselves at concerts.
You just have to be very honest with yourself about your daughter's ability to take on the evening. After that, it's up to you to take control of the situation and do your best to avoid sticky situations.
What does "please keep her in mind" mean though? What if someone wants to spark a joint?? Or yell "holy shit! it's Dirty fucking Frank!!" They should be able to do that without feeling guilty.
With all its sham, drudgery, and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy. ~ Desiderata
I know over the years I've seen people ask this question, but now that I am in that situation I thought I'd see what people felt, or from personal experience...
I got tickets to both Worcester shows. Night one got GA - going with a friend. Night two I got decent seats in an upper section. I have a seven year old daughter who told me that she wants to go with me. Of course, that makes me a proud dad, but is that a good idea to take her? I know it would be loud (ear plugs). I know it would be late (she would have a seat if she needed to nap). If she went, how cool it would it be for her to tell her friends that her first show was at PJ when she was 7 with her dad! But it is on a Wednesday night with school the next day...
What do people think? Anyone with kids that young ever bring them to a show?
Be a good father and keep your daughter home on a school night. Wait until she's a little older, sold out rock concerts are not the place for children, any young children. Some events should be kept adult with drinking and shoving and smoking pot going on.
My personal take...
Spring for the babysitter and you and your wife have a let your hair down, have a night out at the gig.
Why?
Because i think a good age is about 13. The kids are becoming their own person by then. they find their own musical tastes and break away from the music of their parents. If by 13, they want to go to a Pearl Jam gig, it's their choice and not something to do in order to please you and spend some time with you.
And as people have said, 13ish is a good age because they can pretty much take care of themselves. They are well experienced in riding bikes and skateboards and are playing tackle football with their friends and know the limits of their pain thresholds. And more than that, they are beginning to understand the music and songs.
The worst things i've seen parents do with their young kids?
Pimp them out by holding them up with a sign in order to get a guitar pick or something. Holding up kids has replaced flashing C grade tits at the singers for attention. That, and dragging a little kid into a pit and telling them, 'Don't worry... people will let you (me) up to the front'. That only works when the kid needs to be passed to the rail to get dumped to the other side and dragged off to first aid because he cannot breathe in the pit.
i've also seen parents drag their kids to a gig and make them sit through the entire show, when their shortened attention span wears thin and they want to walk around the arena and play on the escalator and try to get you to buy them a churro. Because that's what little kids like to do... play on escalators while eating churros.
I think it's okay to bring a kid to a gig if you have seats, bring earplugs and are willing to leave when they get cranky and want to go home to resume their 'Call Of Duty' game on the computer in their room. Other than that... don't bring them because you want to bring them. If you do, you should be willing to play on the escalator and eat a lot of churros while the band is playing on stage.
This is not against anyone personally, but I feel that parents in general nowadays are really wrapped up in being their child's friend, more than into being a parent. That's where we see bad situations. Good parenting may be no fun, but doing the right thing has a better effect on a child/parent relationship than being merely a "friend" does. I see it all the time.
Be a good father and keep your daughter home on a school night. Wait until she's a little older, sold out rock concerts are not the place for children, any young children. Some events should be kept adult with drinking and shoving and smoking pot going on.
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Just some un-scientific, anecdotal experiences I've had when I was a kid... which is how i come up with my viewpoints... because I remember being a little kid.
We used to go to Dodgers games when I was real little. It was always exciting because we all piled in the 1960 Pontiac Station wagon and drove to the stadium and it was so colorful and beautiful. The players in their bright white uniforms were on that green, green field and the staduim was so impressive in its scale... from the perspective of a 6 year old. And there was the smell of hot dogs and popcorn in the air and all kinds of people. So many people... more people than I've ever seen at one place, wghich, at that time, was my school. It was exciting... for about 3 innings.
After that, the more interesting things at the ball park was keeping a look out for the man in the aisles with all the stuff to buy... peanuts and hot dogs and Cokes and those frozen malts that came with the funny little flat wooden spoons and the best of all... the guy with the pennants and caps and toys. And a visit to the souvenier stand was the best fun... there were so many thing to see and want. That was more interesting than what was going on on the playing field.
The point is... i was 6. Yeah, it was fun to go to the stadium to see the Dodgers vs. The Bad Guys. But, there were things that were more important and fun, than sitting there... watching... something. I didn't fully understand the game other than the Dodgers were the good guys and we wanted them to win... even if we didn't understand how the game worked.
It wasn't until I was a little older and was taught how to play baseball, that i became more interested in the game, than the peanut guy. I originally went to the games because I just wanted to be with my dad and uncle and my brothers and our friends. When i was older and understood more about the game and knew who Sandy Koufax and Maury Wills was, it made going to the stadium much more interesting and exciting. That, and the hope that a home run would fly out to the bleachers and I'd catch it because I had my glove with me... just in case. And spending time with my dad and my uncle and brothers and our friends.
Allen Fieldhouse, home of the 2008 NCAA men's Basketball Champions! Go Jayhawks!
Hail, Hail!!!
For San Diego 2003, my son was 12. It was a school day. From the general Los Angeles area to San Diego on a weekday was approximately 3 hours. I picked him up from school and we made the trek. He did all of his homework on the way down. We accommodated the situation very well. We were at the tuna-can San Diego sports arena pretty early. We got the rest of the home work done and hung out in the parking lot. I parked near the outer perimeter of the lot where I knew it would be very easy to exit and get onto the freeway quickly. So logistically, getting to the event and returning from the event was very convenient and straightforward. Even though we got home a little after two in the morning, he had slept in the car, went right to bed when we got home, and he did not miss school the next day.
The part that was screwed up was the fact that in 2003 10 C seating was restricted to the floor. I think I joined 10 C sometime in 2002 and therefore I had a really high number. That put us back a good 40 to 45 rows on the floor. On any 10 C 2003 bootleg, you'll always hear Ed saying hey Keely turn on the lights. I could look to my left and see Keely about 20 feet away. Yeah, that's how far back we were. With a 12-year-old who was may be 5'4" at that time, it was really hard to see. For me, I could hardly see, for him, he could not see at all. I had to lift him up for about 30 seconds per song. That really stunk. He really enjoyed the concert. He was born may be eight months before the band formed. So he grew up listening to Pearl Jam instead of listening to kids songs. So this was a really big event for him and a little sad that it was so difficult for him to see. If they really like the music, and hopefully people sitting around you act a little bit more respectful around kids, your kids will love the experience.
Up here so high I start to shake, Up here so high the sky I scrape, I've no fear but for falling down, So look out below I am falling now, Falling down,...not staying down, Could’ve held me up, rather tear me down, Drown in the river
For San Diego 2003, my son was 12. It was a school day. From the general Los Angeles area to San Diego on a weekday was approximately 3 hours. I picked him up from school and we made the trek. He did all of his homework on the way down. We accommodated the situation very well. We were at the tuna-can San Diego sports arena pretty early. We got the rest of the home work done and hung out in the parking lot. I parked near the outer perimeter of the lot where I knew it would be very easy to exit and get onto the freeway quickly. So logistically, getting to the event and returning from the event was very convenient and straightforward. Even though we got home a little after two in the morning, he had slept in the car, went right to bed when we got home, and he did not miss school the next day.
The part that was screwed up was the fact that in 2003 10 C seating was restricted to the floor. I think I joined 10 C sometime in 2002 and therefore I had a really high number. That put us back a good 40 to 45 rows on the floor. On any 10 C 2003 bootleg, you'll always hear Ed saying hey Keely turn on the lights. I could look to my left and see Keely about 20 feet away. Yeah, that's how far back we were. With a 12-year-old who was may be 5'4" at that time, it was really hard to see. For me, I could hardly see, for him, he could not see at all. I had to lift him up for about 30 seconds per song. That really stunk. He really enjoyed the concert. He was born may be eight months before the band formed. So he grew up listening to Pearl Jam instead of listening to kids songs. So this was a really big event for him and a little sad that it was so difficult for him to see. If they really like the music, and hopefully people sitting around you act a little bit more respectful around kids, your kids will love the experience.
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I think the difference is... your son was 12.
Now... the difference between 6 and 12 doesn't sound like much... when you are a full grown adult. But, remember the difference you were... when you were 6... and when you were 12? First grade vs. Seventh Grade. Light years apart, right?
I think that 12, 13, 14 age is good because they are becoming more of themselves at that age.
Allen Fieldhouse, home of the 2008 NCAA men's Basketball Champions! Go Jayhawks!
Hail, Hail!!!
Worst Parental skillset I've ever witnessed at a concert: Bridge School Benefit, 2010.
We were on the grass. That was the year it rained... and rained and rained. I would ease up to a moderate dizzle for a hour or so... but, it was mostly a constant rain. and as you know, rain plus lawn times a thousand or so people stomping through it equals mung.
In this environment, me and a friend decided to make a run to the restrooms and stockpile some paper towels to keep handy and to get something to drink. We are trying to make out way across the slippery, slimey, mud soaked lawn and this fucking lady tells us that we cannot pass and we have to be quiet because we'll wake up her kid. Turns out, this 'kid' was a fucking INFANT! Mom was getting on our case because she brought a fucking infant... it sit on a sloping, rain soaked mudslide... all fucking day... with amplified music pumped into the air. I told her that she was crazy and she nearly blew her uterus out... nonsense about her being a good mom and shit. I just said, 'Yeah, good moms drag their 3 week old out in the cold, damp weather to an all day to a rock concert'. The dad didn't say shit because he probably agreed that it was a bad idea for their kid to be out in the rain at 10 P.M... in fucking October.
She won my award for 'Person Who Needs To Read The Fucking Owner's Manual' that came with her kid. Especially the part about not exposing the kid to a rain soaked mudfest until he is 17.
Allen Fieldhouse, home of the 2008 NCAA men's Basketball Champions! Go Jayhawks!
Hail, Hail!!!
Guy fires up a joint during "faithfull"
Dude sitting behind him says "hey man, can you stop that shit? I got my 12 year old son here"
Who is in the wrong?
...
I guess it depends... does the guy with the joint have a Weed Card?
Yes.. or it is in seattle..
...
The guy has a Weed Card... it is okay for him to buy weed from one of those head shops... it's for medicinal purposes, like he has a hang nail or is suffering from 'totally bummed outedness, man'... he can fire it up.
...
The dude sitting next to him can just take a hit and tell his 12 year old kid, 'Don't tell Mom'.
...
Problem solved. You're welcome.
Allen Fieldhouse, home of the 2008 NCAA men's Basketball Champions! Go Jayhawks!
Hail, Hail!!!
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I think the difference is... your son was 12.
Now... the difference between 6 and 12 doesn't sound like much... when you are a full grown adult. But, remember the difference you were... when you were 6... and when you were 12? First grade vs. Seventh Grade. Light years apart, right?
I think that 12, 13, 14 age is good because they are becoming more of themselves at that age.
you are absolutely right about the difference between a six-year-old and a 12-year-old. I'm not sure the six-year-old will actually remember a lot. I'm thinking that if you take a really young kid to a concert, it's not going to mean much for the kid, they will probably get antsy, the bathrooms at these venues are not Ritz-Carlton. There are long lines for the bathroom with a bunch of people screaming all sorts of stuff that you don't want your kid to hear. Then there is the smoke factor mentioned in another post. Logistically, it'll be a lot harder for you to enjoy and the kid, beyond the initial intrigue, will probably give you problems. When I saw this thread, I thought about when I took my son when he was 12 and it was fine. I would not take a kid to a GA section. So the situation would have to be well thought out. For example, the seating in the venue, the facilities, your familiarity with the venue, your kids tolerance, etc. I considered all of those factors before taking my son to San Diego when he was 12. In my case it worked out fine. I had to put myself in my son's shoes knowing what I knew, and I was in Irvine a couple of days prior, and that gave me a good idea of what to expect. The rear floor/inability to see was something that I had not contemplated. Honestly, that was the worst thing that happened to us that day. Relative to that other post where they were at bridge school in the rain, that lady with the infant should have been taken away on grounds of child endangerment. That sounds beyond poor judgment or ignorance.
Up here so high I start to shake, Up here so high the sky I scrape, I've no fear but for falling down, So look out below I am falling now, Falling down,...not staying down, Could’ve held me up, rather tear me down, Drown in the river
you are absolutely right about the difference between a six-year-old and a 12-year-old. I'm not sure the six-year-old will actually remember a lot. I'm thinking that if you take a really young kid to a concert, it's not going to mean much for the kid, they will probably get antsy, the bathrooms at these venues are not Ritz-Carlton. There are long lines for the bathroom with a bunch of people screaming all sorts of stuff that you don't want your kid to hear. Then there is the smoke factor mentioned in another post. Logistically, it'll be a lot harder for you to enjoy and the kid, beyond the initial intrigue, will probably give you problems. When I saw this thread, I thought about when I took my son when he was 12 and it was fine. I would not take a kid to a GA section. So the situation would have to be well thought out. For example, the seating in the venue, the facilities, your familiarity with the venue, your kids tolerance, etc. I considered all of those factors before taking my son to San Diego when he was 12. In my case it worked out fine. I had to put myself in my son's shoes knowing what I knew, and I was in Irvine a couple of days prior, and that gave me a good idea of what to expect. The rear floor/inability to see was something that I had not contemplated. Honestly, that was the worst thing that happened to us that day. Relative to that other post where they were at bridge school in the rain, that lady with the infant should have been taken away on grounds of child endangerment. That sounds beyond poor judgment or ignorance.
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When my nephew was 13 or so... that's the 8th grade, right... I took him to see Green Day/Blink 182 at Irvine. He liked both of those bands and it was, finally, music he liked. My brother usually dragged him to those awful Country shows like Alan Jackson and Shania Twain and The Judds... which might be okay... but, not for a 13 year old kid who like Green Day.
Anyway, during Green Day's set, Billie Joe said there weren't enough people in the pit and said the people should come down. Well, my nephew looked at me with that, "Please... can I go?' look and I said, 'GO!'. And down the aisle he ran.
It was a small pit area and most of the people in there were kids. Our seats were in the orchestra, about 10 rows back so i could see him down there. He was fine. He plays tackle football with his friends at the park and had a blast running around and bumping into the other kids down there. It was pretty mild compared to shows like 'Rage' or those punk shows from the 80s.
After Green Day's set, the venue regained order and kicked out the people without the wristbands, he came up all sweaty and with this giant smile. So, we went out to the merch tables and I got him a Blink shirt and a Green day shirt and a Pop Disaster shirt, so he'd have something dry to wear for Blink's set.
and yeah, my brother was pissed because both of those bands cuss a lot... i mean, they fucking cuss, A LOT. But, come on... really? A 13 year old already knows all the the cuss words by that age. He may still be a bit confused about what fucking means, but, i'm pretty sure my 13 year old nephew cussed around his 13 year old school chums.
Allen Fieldhouse, home of the 2008 NCAA men's Basketball Champions! Go Jayhawks!
Hail, Hail!!!
Bringing my then 5 year old to Missoula last year was one of the best things I've ever done. He was hot as hell and complained some, but it didn't really matter at all. People were great to him and he remembers the entire trip as being very fun. Not only did he not stop me from enjoying the show, his presence enhanced it.
Comments
It does depend on the kid, obviously (though 5/6 seems young to me. My 6 yo is staying home even though he's the air guitar wizard).
1) I would time things, so you have time to head to the bathroom and get something to eat/drink just before show time. I would not sit in your seats with a drink for very long before show time, or you are guaranteed a bathroom break. Plus, the longer they sit BEFORE they come on, the longer you are trying to have them sit to make it through the show (they may still need a break, but isn't it better if they weren't sitting for a half hour BEFORE the show started? - and forget the opening act if there is one). Depending on what date you go, you'll have an idea of when they come on.
2) don't bother people around you. Yeah, it's the first show. Wonderful (I am taking my kids to their first PJ show this fall, also). But, why even lecture folks around you? Folks will do what they are going to do (as they should). They don't need to hear from daddy before the show. They are aware there are kids. You've been to shows before. If your kid is not prepared to handle that stuff, then don't bring them.
I do laugh at the folks with the smoke, drunks, fights. Do you think we keep our kids in a bubble and they've never seen these things? The fact is, the 5 year old probably won't distinguish what type of smoke they are smelling. Don't expect folks to worry about your kids. Let the kids enjoy the show how they see fit. And, isn't that how you act every day with your kids anyway?
I will admit I did one thing at the Quad show I never do - during Tea & Theater (closer), I started heading for the exit, so we could get out quick (we did stay, we just stood near the exit and got out ahead of the crowd). They slept on the way home, so they probably got as much sleep as they normally do. Not sure where this midnight stuff is coming from. Are we expecting rain delays in the arenas this fall? Or are we forced to keep our kids up until they reach their bed?
Wow. At 5 and 6 years old????
Yeah, you should be protecting your kids from this stuff.
Ha, ha, ha. So, you think a 5 year old has never seen anyone smoke? Do you think at a concert they are going to distinguish? They might say - that smells different and move on.
As for people drinking - you've never had a family get together?
As for fights - I guess if it's an only child, they may never have seen a fight. Otherwise, they'll be happy to be an observer and not a participant.
I guess you are right - if someone comes up and punches my kid in the back of the head, I'd have made the wrong choice. Then again, if a car comes up my street too fast when he's riding a bike, I may have made a bad decision, too.
At the Quad concert I mentioned, they did see a fight. Well, actually, they saw a "hit and run." I didn't see it, my boys did. They asked me if I saw it. I said no. They described it and we moved on with our lives. Humans are actually generally good. As I left, they guy in the row behind me said, "good job" as I left. It depends on the kid. I wouldn't take a 5 year old (as I said - I have one - he didn't go to Quad, and he's not going to PJ even though at home he's really into both). But, to each his own. Don't expect others to act differently.
The problem is that kids still end up in the pit. I was at a Flogging Molly concert where some lady brought her 4 year old daughter into the pit. Everyone was like, "Are you serious?!" That kid could have gotten seriously hurt.
All my blabbering aside - I do think GA is absolutely insane for a pre-teen unless you are standing near the back. If you think you should bring a 4 yo "into the fray" and/or expect folks to act like it's Gymboree, then your child should be taken from you.
I purposely chose GA for Brooklyn 1 (and go lucky) b/c I knew I'd need to get seats for Saturday night to bring my sons.
i paid for my seat just like you paid for yours, and this is a rock concert after all.
you may want to plan your bathroom breaks accordingly...
I'll be sparking up another one around the first encore
No problem. And if some of your 2nd hand wafts in my direction, I might take a couple of deeper breaths.
Spring for the babysitter and you and your wife have a let your hair down, have a night out at the gig.
Why?
Because i think a good age is about 13. The kids are becoming their own person by then. they find their own musical tastes and break away from the music of their parents. If by 13, they want to go to a Pearl Jam gig, it's their choice and not something to do in order to please you and spend some time with you.
And as people have said, 13ish is a good age because they can pretty much take care of themselves. They are well experienced in riding bikes and skateboards and are playing tackle football with their friends and know the limits of their pain thresholds. And more than that, they are beginning to understand the music and songs.
The worst things i've seen parents do with their young kids?
Pimp them out by holding them up with a sign in order to get a guitar pick or something. Holding up kids has replaced flashing C grade tits at the singers for attention. That, and dragging a little kid into a pit and telling them, 'Don't worry... people will let you (me) up to the front'. That only works when the kid needs to be passed to the rail to get dumped to the other side and dragged off to first aid because he cannot breathe in the pit.
i've also seen parents drag their kids to a gig and make them sit through the entire show, when their shortened attention span wears thin and they want to walk around the arena and play on the escalator and try to get you to buy them a churro. Because that's what little kids like to do... play on escalators while eating churros.
I think it's okay to bring a kid to a gig if you have seats, bring earplugs and are willing to leave when they get cranky and want to go home to resume their 'Call Of Duty' game on the computer in their room. Other than that... don't bring them because you want to bring them. If you do, you should be willing to play on the escalator and eat a lot of churros while the band is playing on stage.
Hail, Hail!!!
Be a good father and keep your daughter home on a school night. Wait until she's a little older, sold out rock concerts are not the place for children, any young children. Some events should be kept adult with drinking and shoving and smoking pot going on.
Great post.
Just some un-scientific, anecdotal experiences I've had when I was a kid... which is how i come up with my viewpoints... because I remember being a little kid.
We used to go to Dodgers games when I was real little. It was always exciting because we all piled in the 1960 Pontiac Station wagon and drove to the stadium and it was so colorful and beautiful. The players in their bright white uniforms were on that green, green field and the staduim was so impressive in its scale... from the perspective of a 6 year old. And there was the smell of hot dogs and popcorn in the air and all kinds of people. So many people... more people than I've ever seen at one place, wghich, at that time, was my school. It was exciting... for about 3 innings.
After that, the more interesting things at the ball park was keeping a look out for the man in the aisles with all the stuff to buy... peanuts and hot dogs and Cokes and those frozen malts that came with the funny little flat wooden spoons and the best of all... the guy with the pennants and caps and toys. And a visit to the souvenier stand was the best fun... there were so many thing to see and want. That was more interesting than what was going on on the playing field.
The point is... i was 6. Yeah, it was fun to go to the stadium to see the Dodgers vs. The Bad Guys. But, there were things that were more important and fun, than sitting there... watching... something. I didn't fully understand the game other than the Dodgers were the good guys and we wanted them to win... even if we didn't understand how the game worked.
It wasn't until I was a little older and was taught how to play baseball, that i became more interested in the game, than the peanut guy. I originally went to the games because I just wanted to be with my dad and uncle and my brothers and our friends. When i was older and understood more about the game and knew who Sandy Koufax and Maury Wills was, it made going to the stadium much more interesting and exciting. That, and the hope that a home run would fly out to the bleachers and I'd catch it because I had my glove with me... just in case. And spending time with my dad and my uncle and brothers and our friends.
Hail, Hail!!!
The part that was screwed up was the fact that in 2003 10 C seating was restricted to the floor. I think I joined 10 C sometime in 2002 and therefore I had a really high number. That put us back a good 40 to 45 rows on the floor. On any 10 C 2003 bootleg, you'll always hear Ed saying hey Keely turn on the lights. I could look to my left and see Keely about 20 feet away. Yeah, that's how far back we were. With a 12-year-old who was may be 5'4" at that time, it was really hard to see. For me, I could hardly see, for him, he could not see at all. I had to lift him up for about 30 seconds per song. That really stunk. He really enjoyed the concert. He was born may be eight months before the band formed. So he grew up listening to Pearl Jam instead of listening to kids songs. So this was a really big event for him and a little sad that it was so difficult for him to see. If they really like the music, and hopefully people sitting around you act a little bit more respectful around kids, your kids will love the experience.
I think the difference is... your son was 12.
Now... the difference between 6 and 12 doesn't sound like much... when you are a full grown adult. But, remember the difference you were... when you were 6... and when you were 12? First grade vs. Seventh Grade. Light years apart, right?
I think that 12, 13, 14 age is good because they are becoming more of themselves at that age.
Hail, Hail!!!
We were on the grass. That was the year it rained... and rained and rained. I would ease up to a moderate dizzle for a hour or so... but, it was mostly a constant rain. and as you know, rain plus lawn times a thousand or so people stomping through it equals mung.
In this environment, me and a friend decided to make a run to the restrooms and stockpile some paper towels to keep handy and to get something to drink. We are trying to make out way across the slippery, slimey, mud soaked lawn and this fucking lady tells us that we cannot pass and we have to be quiet because we'll wake up her kid. Turns out, this 'kid' was a fucking INFANT! Mom was getting on our case because she brought a fucking infant... it sit on a sloping, rain soaked mudslide... all fucking day... with amplified music pumped into the air. I told her that she was crazy and she nearly blew her uterus out... nonsense about her being a good mom and shit. I just said, 'Yeah, good moms drag their 3 week old out in the cold, damp weather to an all day to a rock concert'. The dad didn't say shit because he probably agreed that it was a bad idea for their kid to be out in the rain at 10 P.M... in fucking October.
She won my award for 'Person Who Needs To Read The Fucking Owner's Manual' that came with her kid. Especially the part about not exposing the kid to a rain soaked mudfest until he is 17.
Hail, Hail!!!
Guy fires up a joint during "faithfull"
Dude sitting behind him says "hey man, can you stop that shit? I got my 12 year old son here"
Who is in the wrong?
Abrn Hlls '98 - Clarkston 2 '03 - Grd Rpds '06 - Abrn Hlls '06 - Clvd '10 - PJ20 - Berlin 1+2 '12 - Wrigley '13 - Pitt '13- buff '13- Philly 1+2 '13 - Seattle '13
I guess it depends... does the guy with the joint have a Weed Card?
Hail, Hail!!!
well technically speaking the guy lightning up since 1.not allowed to smoke in the building and 2.joint specifically is illegal in most places lol
Abrn Hlls '98 - Clarkston 2 '03 - Grd Rpds '06 - Abrn Hlls '06 - Clvd '10 - PJ20 - Berlin 1+2 '12 - Wrigley '13 - Pitt '13- buff '13- Philly 1+2 '13 - Seattle '13
Abrn Hlls '98 - Clarkston 2 '03 - Grd Rpds '06 - Abrn Hlls '06 - Clvd '10 - PJ20 - Berlin 1+2 '12 - Wrigley '13 - Pitt '13- buff '13- Philly 1+2 '13 - Seattle '13
Both
1. Dad, even though it is illegal, must EXPECT that to go on at a rock concert
2. Guy smoking is technically breaking the law.
The guy has a Weed Card... it is okay for him to buy weed from one of those head shops... it's for medicinal purposes, like he has a hang nail or is suffering from 'totally bummed outedness, man'... he can fire it up.
...
The dude sitting next to him can just take a hit and tell his 12 year old kid, 'Don't tell Mom'.
...
Problem solved. You're welcome.
Hail, Hail!!!
Abrn Hlls '98 - Clarkston 2 '03 - Grd Rpds '06 - Abrn Hlls '06 - Clvd '10 - PJ20 - Berlin 1+2 '12 - Wrigley '13 - Pitt '13- buff '13- Philly 1+2 '13 - Seattle '13
you are absolutely right about the difference between a six-year-old and a 12-year-old. I'm not sure the six-year-old will actually remember a lot. I'm thinking that if you take a really young kid to a concert, it's not going to mean much for the kid, they will probably get antsy, the bathrooms at these venues are not Ritz-Carlton. There are long lines for the bathroom with a bunch of people screaming all sorts of stuff that you don't want your kid to hear. Then there is the smoke factor mentioned in another post. Logistically, it'll be a lot harder for you to enjoy and the kid, beyond the initial intrigue, will probably give you problems. When I saw this thread, I thought about when I took my son when he was 12 and it was fine. I would not take a kid to a GA section. So the situation would have to be well thought out. For example, the seating in the venue, the facilities, your familiarity with the venue, your kids tolerance, etc. I considered all of those factors before taking my son to San Diego when he was 12. In my case it worked out fine. I had to put myself in my son's shoes knowing what I knew, and I was in Irvine a couple of days prior, and that gave me a good idea of what to expect. The rear floor/inability to see was something that I had not contemplated. Honestly, that was the worst thing that happened to us that day. Relative to that other post where they were at bridge school in the rain, that lady with the infant should have been taken away on grounds of child endangerment. That sounds beyond poor judgment or ignorance.
When my nephew was 13 or so... that's the 8th grade, right... I took him to see Green Day/Blink 182 at Irvine. He liked both of those bands and it was, finally, music he liked. My brother usually dragged him to those awful Country shows like Alan Jackson and Shania Twain and The Judds... which might be okay... but, not for a 13 year old kid who like Green Day.
Anyway, during Green Day's set, Billie Joe said there weren't enough people in the pit and said the people should come down. Well, my nephew looked at me with that, "Please... can I go?' look and I said, 'GO!'. And down the aisle he ran.
It was a small pit area and most of the people in there were kids. Our seats were in the orchestra, about 10 rows back so i could see him down there. He was fine. He plays tackle football with his friends at the park and had a blast running around and bumping into the other kids down there. It was pretty mild compared to shows like 'Rage' or those punk shows from the 80s.
After Green Day's set, the venue regained order and kicked out the people without the wristbands, he came up all sweaty and with this giant smile. So, we went out to the merch tables and I got him a Blink shirt and a Green day shirt and a Pop Disaster shirt, so he'd have something dry to wear for Blink's set.
and yeah, my brother was pissed because both of those bands cuss a lot... i mean, they fucking cuss, A LOT. But, come on... really? A 13 year old already knows all the the cuss words by that age. He may still be a bit confused about what fucking means, but, i'm pretty sure my 13 year old nephew cussed around his 13 year old school chums.
Hail, Hail!!!
For what it's worth.