What began as a love affair has come to a bitter end. After 2 frustrating experiences at JW Tumbles in Arlington, we will not go back.

We took Peanut to Pay to Play Wednesday evening at the JW Tumbles in Arlington. He enjoys getting one last play in before bedtime. And, we were happy to join him.

After last night, playtime is over.

Last Wednesday, the other kids played while their parents chatted with one another. One family chose to bring dinner for their kids to eat in the common area in between their play time. But, since the parents were busy chatting with one another, one of the children brought his chicken tender onto the slide with him. Luckily, we noticed this and grabbed Peanut.

I complained to the one young employee who was busy talking on the phone almost the entire time we were there. A few minutes later, she told the parents there was no food allowed in the play area.

Last night we returned to for another round of pay to play. The same young employee was on the telephone again. This time a few parents decided to bring a large buffet of food for their children. The parents did not seem to understand that this is a children’s gym, and not a children’s restaurant. Open boxes of snacks were lined up in the common area.

Once again, Peanut was having fun playing when we noticed a child eating his dinner in the play area.

What is wrong with these people? Can’t their children eat dinner at home before or after they play? Could it be that even in this day and age, some parents are clueless about food allergies? Just a little common sense and consideration could prevent a horrible accident.

When I complained to the employee, she graciously put her caller on hold. She told me that maybe the parents did not know about the no food policy, to which I wonder, “well, isn’t your job to tell them? They are right in front of you.” I did not see a prominent sign declaring the play area a no food zone. I did not see wipes offered for children to clean their hands after they ate. I would not have joined JW Tumbles had I not been reassured that there would be no food in the play area.

Children’s health and lives are at stake. JW should be more attentive to its own policies. Hang a sign, offer ways for children to clean their hands and hire staff that pays attention to children around them.

We will not go back. Peanut will have to play at home for a while.