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Children and youth visit many different types of local businesses. Corner stores, grocery stores, malls, restaurants and banks are a few examples of businesses they visit both with their parents and on their own. When young people go to local businesses unaccompanied by their parents, they may come into conflict with managers or employees who are concerned about shoplifting or with their other consumers concerned about unattended children and youth. Youth are a significant consumer group and influence family spending habits. Yet, despite this fact, many youth feel that they are not treated with respect by local businesses.

Child and youth friendly businesses are spaces that welcome children, youth and families, provide facilities, services, and amenities that meet their needs, and treat young people with respect when they are on their own. By encouraging businesses to offer family-friendly amenities, services, and having family-friendly attitudes, businesses gain loyal, satisfied, repeat customers, and families know where they are welcome in the community when they conduct their day-to-day business.