Obama Inauguration: Should you bring the kids to this historic event?

December 4, 11:49 AMParenting ExaminerTerreece Clarke

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The Obama kids will be there, will yours?

In January the first African American President will be sworn into office. Among those attending will be dignitaries, members of high society, celebrities and Obama's two young daughters, but the inauguration committee says bringing your kids to the event may not be such a good idea. 

The Washington Post today said "Organizers of President-elect Barack Obama's Jan. 20 swearing-in ceremony are being as kid-friendly as a snooty, high-priced restaurant."

The committee is advising parents of the very cold temperatures, large million-plus crowds, stroller and bag ban, and standing-room-only climate, and warns of no accommodations for the youngest Americans.

Greg Allen of Daddytypes.Com, a blog for new dads was quoted from his blog saying: "It's like, 'No history for you, kids.' "

My husband and I are still deciding whether we are going to attend the event and further struggled with whether or not we should take the kids. Our 18 month-old shouts "Bo-Bama" every time she sees him on the screen and our 4 year-old is dedicated to wearing her Obama tees, but if our rally attendances are any indication they will not be happy campers at the inauguration. After waiting for two hours in great weather at Obama rallies my girls would be no longer interested in the treats, games and other distractions I would bring in my magic bag. They'd go AWOL from the stroller and the toddler would do the "stiff leg" so the sling would give her enough slack to plummet to the ground.

There's a "no thermos" rule as well so no hot cocoa or treats to keep the girls busy, no stroller for tired, young feet and with a very mobile toddler long periods in the sling will end in both of us crying. Not to mention the snowsuit/potty issues. Historic meltdowns of the Clarke family is not the history I want to remember on January 20th, but I can understand parents who want to take their kids.

"You were THERE!" they can shout as the flip through the scrapbooks. The opportunity to witness history, to live it is so exciting. So both sides have great points. I think non-mobile infants might fare well with adequate clothing in a sling or carrier and older kids should do well also. If you plan to take the kids here are a few things to think about:

• Know your child. Don't let the prospect of history outweigh common sense. If your kid has a small bladder, is fearful in large crowds or gets really cranky without a nap, you may want to live history with friends and family in the comfort of a indoor environment.
• Be prepared with adequate clothing and a plan if you get separated (for older kids).
• Can you carry/hold your child for long periods of time?
• Consider going to Washington, but attending a watch party instead so your still in the environment but you've got a bathroom and other conveniences nearby.
• Carefully read the inauguration committee's list of banned items and plan accordingly.

Are you going to the ceremony? Are you taking the kids? Tell us below!