Some years ago I picked up a grandchild at a birthday party and the mother invited me inside so she could take a break (some other mother had volunteered to kid watch). I was really startled because the living room was most of the down stairs, a huge room, circular, lined with computers, printers and equipment I couldn't ID. Apparently both parents either worked from home or did a lot of "homework" and the center of the room was for the young children. Obviously a setup that really suited their needs. Why not?! I didn't go upstairs but I couldn't help but wonder if they had soft "living room" chairs for relaxing and being together. Whatever works. In years gone by it was not unusual for children to be kept out of the "parlor" because it was kept perfect for when guests came! Now that is sad!