Independence Days
In the Netflix series “Old Enough,” parents send their preschoolers on errands that are far more ambitious than simply tidying up their toys. The delightful and inspiring adventures of these young children prompt reflection on the responsibilities we might be overlooking for our own kids.
While we aspire to raise independent individuals, the idea of allowing a toddler to grocery shop alone—as seen in the series—seems far-fetched for most American families. In the first episode, a 2-year-old walks a kilometer to the store, successfully buys three items for his mother, and returns home to receive well-deserved praise. Although we wish for our children to be that capable, few would let them navigate a busy street waving a flag as the little one does in the show.
It’s important to note that these children are closely monitored by a crew and camera operators. The families are carefully selected, and significant preparation is involved to ensure the kids are ready for their first solo errands. The original title of the show, “Hajimete no Otsukai,” translates to “My First Errand.” An article in The Guardian sheds light on the extensive planning behind each episode.
This revelation was reassuring, as I briefly entertained the notion that Japanese parents have toddlers managing crowded fish markets. The series aims to showcase what children are capable of, rather than what is typical.
As a parent, I find this notion inspiring. I often make mac and cheese for my 16-year-old, despite having shown him how to prepare it numerous times. Recently, my husband and I left the necessary ingredients and tools out while attending a party, hoping our son would take initiative. Instead, he immersed himself in Minecraft coding and went to bed without dinner.
Nevertheless, “Old Enough” motivates me to continue encouraging my children to be self-sufficient. I hope that my experiences, such as letting my 11-year-old take the subway to school—which is common in Brooklyn—will no longer seem unusual to my friends outside the city. I’ve also allowed both of my children to navigate airports and board planes by themselves in their teenage years. These experiences are possible, even if they sometimes fill me with a mix of awe, gratitude, and anxiety.
The comedic commentary accompanying the footage of these Japanese children adds to the fun, but what truly warms my heart is hearing their candid thoughts as they tackle their tasks, reminiscent of a viral video featuring a tiny skier. Watching the supportive parents also brings joy. In episode two, a mother observes her mischievous 4-year-old confidently making fresh-squeezed juice at home. “I’m so pleased,” she says, wiping away tears, only to feel a tinge of sadness when her child doesn’t look back.
For more insights on parenting and independence, check out our post on home insemination kit, which offers valuable information on related topics. If you’re interested in learning more about insemination options, resources like this and the CDC can provide excellent guidance.
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In summary, “Old Enough” challenges American parents to rethink the responsibilities they assign to their children and to consider what their kids might actually be capable of handling. By fostering independence, we can prepare our children for the world ahead.
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