I’ve recently read Guy Kawasaki’s book How to Drive Your Competition Crazy and one example he mentions is a restaurant that caters for children. By catering for children I don’t just mean offering a children’s menu, they actually have a playpen in the restaurant so kids can go off and play safely while their parents enjoy dining out without the stress of bored children.

I’d take it further though, how about having a playpen, TV room and even a nursery/crèche? Sure you’re going to lose a large area that you could be seating diners in, but you should be able to raise your prices to cover the expense or charge an entrance fee for children to cover the lost revenue. I doubt you’d lose business due to higher prices as by providing such facilities you’ll get customers who are prepared to travel further to dine at your restaurant.

Ok great that covers a large restaurant, but what if I’ve only got a small location? Well in that case I’d consider creating a private family dining room with some toys and soft chairs etc in the corner. You won’t need as much room and the parents won’t have to worry that their kids are in the way or bothering other customers.

You’ve also got the option of then renting out the space to mum and toddler groups in the mornings.

This post is part of my child friendly business ideas week .

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