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For a couple of years now, my kids have been clamoring for a “Yes Day”—a 24-hour period where I agree to everything they ask for, within reason. I’ve always stalled by asking them what they would want to do. Their dream day? Unlimited screen time.
First off, despite their claims of being deprived of electronics, we often have days filled with video games and movies. So, no need to panic! However, a true “Yes Day” requires more thought, which is part of why I’ve delayed it. If we’re going to embark on a full day of saying “yes,” my kids need to come up with ideas, and we should establish some ground rules. But that’s as far as we’ve gotten until now.
After watching the Netflix film Yes Day, starring Jennifer Garner, the idea resurfaced, and I’m now determined to make it happen. The movie is inspired by the book of the same name by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Garner, seeking joy, transformed her family’s tradition into a film. She told Scary Mommy, “I pitched it, produced it, found the writer. I wanted to do this and chose to work. I need joy as a person. And I need joy coming at me.” Watching the movie with my kids brought us joy, but it also reminded us of the appreciation we often overlook in our daily lives—especially amid a pandemic.
The film illustrates the contrast between life before and after kids. It’s much easier to agree to fun activities when it’s just you and your partner. Once children enter the picture, their requests for “fun” activities can often lead to dangerous situations since their decision-making skills are still developing. Kids usually want to have their fun right before bed or during critical tasks, making it tricky for parents to say yes.
It’s not that parents don’t want their children to enjoy life; it’s that we’re trying to keep them safe, which can be exhausting. Watching the film, I recognized how often kids hear “no” from their parents. I hate seeing my kids’ disappointed faces when I have to turn down their requests. I know I’m busy and stressed, just like Garner’s character, but I want to embrace more playfulness with my kids while they still want to have fun with me. My oldest is already 10—how did that happen? My twins are nearly eight, and this is a perfect time for us to create some wonderful memories. “Yes Day” was a reminder to seize the moment while they’re still young.
An intriguing aspect of Yes Day highlights the dynamics within families. It often portrays one parent as the fun-loving one (the dad, in this case) while the other parent, usually the mom, takes on the more serious and organized role. My kids noticed this dynamic as it unfolded in the film. They initially thought I should adopt the “fun dad” persona. While my ex-partner is typically the one who bends the rules, we both share the responsibilities of parenting, ensuring neither of us bears the entire load.
The movie provided a glimpse into my thought process as a parent. My kids saw themselves reflected in the chaotic, loud world of childhood and began to appreciate the pressures I face. While they may not be ready to change their behavior drastically, at least they understand why I can’t say “yes” as often as I’d like. I assured them that I want to say “yes” more often and will work on introducing more fun, kid-driven plans into our lives. Parenting is a joy, and sometimes it’s perfectly fine to say “yes” to ice cream for dinner! We even discussed planning a “Yes Day” once the COVID situation is more manageable.
We all acknowledged that the constant “no” due to the pandemic has been a drag, but we can hold off for a few more months to truly enjoy a well-organized day dedicated to “yes.”
For more insights on related topics, check out this post about home insemination. If you’re interested in fertility, Make a Mom offers excellent resources, as does Medical News Today for anyone looking into pregnancy and home insemination.
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