Life before kids. For many of us, that time was filled with activities that didn't involve cartoon characters, big sticky peanut butter messes, or songs about sharing and caring sung by big dopey dinosaurs. Some of us even *gasp* enjoyed getting out now and then to have a few laughs with friends. Not that I'm bashing parenthood - this is the family column, after all - but I think we'd all be lying if we didn't admit once in a while that it would be nice to rock out to some great live music after a long day at work.

There is a solution, complete with the ancillary perk of saving a small fortune on babysitters. Coffeehouses have come a long way, baby, and several in the Rochester area have full stages, offer musical entertainment most nights of the week, and are kid-friendly to boot. There's space to dance at many of them, and what kid can resist dancing along to music? Not many. Thankfully, these venues are Barney-free - although you may have to wade through a few indie hipster kids in their skinny jeans, which can be just as terrifying. Keep your pre-kid music street cred, support local music, and expose your children to something other than the drivel on the radio. Think of it as doing your kids a favor. They'll thank you for it later.

There are of course other coffeehouses in the Rochester area, but these stick out as particularly kid-friendly. If you have your own favorites, let us know at rochestercitynewspaper.com. Small disclaimer: although these are all kid-safe environments, please be diligent about keeping your kids close to you. Hot drinks abound, and busy baristas don't take kindly to tripping over little ones.

Boulder Coffee

With new Boulder locations opening faster than some national chains can close stores, Boulder is quickly becoming the crown jewel of Rochester's music/coffee scene. Boulder is more than coffee, though: local art adorns the walls, kids can enjoy a snack while mom or dad enjoy a glass of wine, and great live music by local and national artists abounds most nights with no cover. Play a game of Battleship while sipping a latte, or get out on the floor and shake your tush with the kids, ensuring both them and you a good night's sleep. For a complete schedule of performances, check bouldercoffeeco.com. (100 Alexander St; 955 Genesee St; 1 Public Market)

Little Theatre Café

Not technically a coffee shop, of course, but I'd be remiss if I didn't mention this gem. Musical selections range from jazz to a cappella vocals, and the desserts are incredible. Art from some of the region's finest artists covers the walls. Perhaps not for the youngest set, but for well-mannered tweens and up, this is a great place to go for a night of culture and music. Let them soak it all in. Get the details at thelittle.org. (240 East Ave)

Lovin' Cup

The recently opened Lovin' Cup is, simply put, wonderful. Musical offerings are diverse, and include a weekly jazz night, jam bands, local rock acts, and anything else in between. One of the best things about this place is the creative and interesting fare that's both kid- and foodie-friendly. And I'm not gonna lie, the names of the foods stroke my inner musical geek in all the right ways. Personal favorites include the Baba O'Riley, Let it Brie, Rage Against the Green, and the Instant Karmal drink. The venue also has a big selection of microbrews. What a beautiful buzz. For details check lovincup.com. (Park Point, Jefferson Road near RIT)

The Mez

This chill little hole in the wall has a great, cozy vibe and is a great place to relax for a night of music and fun with the kids. Weekday evenings bring local artists together for jam sessions and open mics, and weekends feature local and touring artists. Delicious light fare is on the menu (pizzadillas are sure to be a fave with the kids), and there are seats near the windows to watch the colorful world of Gregory Street pass by. Check out houseofhamez.com for the full menu, schedule, and even an explanation for the unique name of this South Wedge business. (389 Gregory St)

Equal Grounds

While Equal Grounds doesn't have live music as often as the other shops, I wanted to include it in the interest of diversity. Rochester's premier GLBT coffee shop is a great place to hang out. Granted, some of the adult-oriented materials for sale along the back wall should likely be avoided by the kids, but the atmosphere in this South Wedge joint can't be duplicated. Warm, friendly, inclusive, and fun. Of note for older kids: a songwriter open mic night is held the third Friday of month; teens have been known to participate. Details at equalgrounds.com. (750 South Ave).