Saying “Yes” to My Kids: Embracing the Joy of Parenting

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By: Madison Brooks

As a parent, I often find myself in the role of the enforcer. I establish boundaries, maintain order, and often say “no” to my kids. No, you can’t have candy before dinner. No, you can’t poke your sibling with a stick. No, you can’t run wild in the grocery store. However, there are times when I choose to be a bit more lenient. There are moments when I surrender to their persistent pleas, look the other way when discipline is necessary, and simply say “yes” to things that might typically warrant a “no.”

Sometimes, I opt for “yes” because I’m just exhausted from being the authority figure and being labeled the “Mean Mom” for insisting my child takes a bath. There are days when I yield because engaging in a back-and-forth just sounds like too much work. And let’s be honest, my little ones can be unbelievably charming, and part of childhood is about indulging them once in a while—because who really needs to abide by all those “shoulds”?

Here are a few things I find myself saying “yes” to, even if they might seem like a “no” at first glance:

• Sweet Treats: When my kids want dessert, it’s an opportunity for me too. I get to share in the fun without the hassle of sneaking snacks like a ninja in the kitchen.
• Cookie Dough: There’s something special about savoring the raw dough while baking. Plus, has anyone actually gotten sick from it? I think not.
• Playdates: My kids thrive on social interaction. Hosting friends means happy kids and a little more peace for me, which is a win-win.
• Extra TV Time: Sometimes a mom’s gotta do what a mom’s gotta do, right?
• Tree Climbing: Isn’t climbing trees a rite of passage for childhood?
• Books: Despite having a wide selection at home and easy access to the library, I can’t resist picking up a new book when they ask. The smell of a fresh book is hard to resist.
• Skipping Homework: I know, I know! I feel bad for the teachers, but we have plenty of reading materials at home.
• Risk-Taking: It’s essential for kids to learn to make decisions, and sometimes that involves taking a few risks.
• Leaving the Toilet Seat Up: This isn’t exactly saying “yes,” but I can’t always manage the toilet seat battle. Sometimes it’s just easier to let it slide.
• Junk Food Choices: Shopping with kids can be a challenge, so allowing them to pick out some treats makes the trip more bearable.
• Independence: Letting them ride their bikes alone occasionally helps foster their independence.
• Occasional Bedtime Delays: They can be a handful all day, but at night, they turn into sweethearts! Saying “yes” to a few extra minutes of bedtime is worth it.
• Sports Gear: When they show interest in a new sport, I find it hard to say no—even if their interests change rapidly.
• Eating on the Couch: By the end of the week, I’m too worn out to enforce meal-time rules, so a little mess is just part of life.
• One More Tuck-In: After saying goodnight, if they request “just one more tuck-in,” I often give in.
• Creative Messes: It might mean more cleaning later, but allowing them to make a mess gives me a few moments of quiet.
• Family Movie Night: This is one of the rare times when they actually sit still, and a bowl of popcorn helps keep them entertained.
• Movies with Strong Language: Kids hear worse on the playground, so why not enjoy a fun movie together—even if it has some colorful language?
• Encouraging Individuality: Saying “yes” to their unique expressions is essential. I want them to feel free to be themselves.

Parenting is undoubtedly challenging and filled with tough choices. I often find myself saying “no” to protect my kids from their own less-than-stellar ideas. Yet, sometimes, the real mistake might be saying “no” too often. After all, embracing a little “yes” can lead to so much more joy in our lives.

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In summary, sometimes saying “yes” opens up a world of joy, laughter, and cherished memories in parenting. It’s about finding the balance between guidance and fun, allowing our children to experience life fully.