As a parent of 2, now 15 and 18, I have not been seated in the main dining room. Neither me or my kids were emotionally scarred. It is their clear policy, one that anyone reading this forum is well aware of.
It seems that many think that their kids are different from my kids and most any that I have run into- they are perfectly behaved
I have eaten at many restaurants in the Lakes region (and in many cities where fine dining is commonplace) and one thing I know is that NO restaurant is perfect. Occasionally even the best of the best fail to meet their customer's expectations. I believe Canoe does a great job at their mission. I, for one, am glad that I have good options for food on this side of the Lake- Canoe, Woodshed, Lavinias, Lemongrass, The Restaurant and Corner House Inn.