Independence Days
Insights for American Parents from Japan’s ‘Old Enough’
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On the Netflix series “Old Enough,” parents assign preschoolers the task of running errands, and these tiny tots impressively rise to the occasion. Perhaps it’s time for me to consider giving my own children more responsibilities!
By Jessica G Hartshorn
Updated: February 20, 2024
Originally Published: April 11, 2022
If you’re looking for a delightful rabbit hole, the under-10-minute episodes of “Old Enough” on Netflix are perfect. The show highlights Japanese preschoolers undertaking errands that go far beyond mere toy cleanup. Their adventures are both charming and thought-provoking, making you wonder what tasks your kids might be capable of handling independently.
While we strive to nurture independence in our children, the idea of allowing a 2-year-old to grocery shop solo—like the little boy in the first episode—seems unimaginable for most American parents. Spoiler alert: he walks a kilometer, buys three necessary items, and returns home to bask in deserved praise. We all hope for that level of independence, yet the thought of letting them cross a busy street on their own, waving a little flag, is daunting.
Interestingly, these children are closely monitored by a crew and camera operators throughout their errands. The producers meticulously select families and prepare their little ones for their first solo experiences, meaning these kids aren’t out and about doing this every day. In fact, the original title of the show, Hajimete no Otsukai, translates to “My First Errand.” An article in The Guardian elaborates on the extensive preparation involved in each episode.
This revelation was a relief for me. For a brief moment, I questioned whether Japanese parents had children who could navigate crowded fish markets before even starting kindergarten. The show’s true purpose is to demonstrate what is achievable, rather than what is typical.
As a mom, this is encouraging. I often find myself making mac and cheese for my 16-year-old, even though I’ve taught him how to do it multiple times. Last weekend, my husband and I left the ingredients out for him while we attended a party. I wish I could say he took the initiative to prepare his own dinner, but instead, he immersed himself in Minecraft coding and went to bed without eating.
Nonetheless, this show will motivate me to continue providing him with opportunities to be more self-sufficient. I also hope “Old Enough” will help my friends outside of New York City stop thinking I’m insane for allowing my 11-year-old to take the subway to school—something that is quite common in Brooklyn. If you hop on the subway around 7:30 AM or 3 PM, you’ll see plenty of school-age children riding solo. I’ve also allowed both of my children to navigate airports and board planes independently as teenagers. These experiences are possible, even if they evoke a mix of wonder and anxiety, akin to what the mothers in the Netflix episodes feel.
The commentary accompanying the footage of the Japanese children adds humor, but what truly warms my heart is hearing the kids mic’d up, reminiscent of the viral video featuring a tiny 3-year-old skier. Listening to them narrate their errands is utterly endearing. Watching their equally brave parents fills me with joy. In one episode, a mother observes her mischievous 4-year-old as he confidently makes fresh-squeezed juice at home, exclaiming, “I’m so pleased,” before realizing with a hint of sadness that he didn’t even look back.
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Summary
The Netflix show “Old Enough” demonstrates how Japanese preschoolers tackle errands with impressive independence, prompting American parents to reconsider the responsibilities they assign to their children. While the series showcases what is possible, it highlights the importance of encouraging self-sufficiency in kids, even if it’s a gradual process. The emotional moments between parents and children serve as a reminder of the joy and challenges of parenting.
Keyphrase: lessons from Japan’s ‘Old Enough’ for American parents
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