Kraft Heinz sponsored this post but the opinions are my own.
As moms, it can seem like a lot of our day is spent saying “no”. When they are little, it’s “No, you can’t stick that up your nose”. As they get older it’s more like “No, you can’t play that violent, rated M video game even though your friend’s parents let him play it.” I’m sure that kids think we love saying no all the time and get a thrill out of denying them the things they want. But you and I know that nothing could be further from the truth. It’s actually a natural instinct to want to give our kids whatever they want and we enjoy seeing the smile on their face when we are able to say yes.
The idea of a “day of yes” is not a new one but it’s been awhile since we had one in our house. Thanks to our sponsor, Capri Sun, we were able to recently have another fun “yes day” and I’m excited to share some tips I’ve picked up over the years to make sure our “yes days” go as smoothly as possible.
1. Explain that there are still a few core rules and values that your family sticks to, no matter what. We have a rule against energy drinks that contain caffeine, sugar and other stimulants. That rule does not change just because we are having a “yes day”. Letting your kids know that the hard and fast rules you always live by are still in effect should hopefully cut down on the “pie in the sky” requests.
2. Prepare and prep so that you can avoid having to say no when some predictable requests come up. Packing a cooler with a drink that you are okay with, like Capri Sun, means no requests to go through the fast food drive thru to grab a soda. If you don’t want to be stopping for an expensive restaurant meal, pack a fun lunch you can eat as a picnic.
3.Present “which would you rather” scenarios. Offer a few different things that your kids can choose from. As long as they are all things you would be willing to do, you can’t lose no matter which they choose. Would you rather go bowling or roller-skating avoids the requests to go to an amusement park when you ask the kids what they would like to do. (Hey – I’d rather go to an amusement park too!!)
4. Make “yes day” something the kids can earn. Once the kids have experienced a yes day, they will want more. Use a “yes day” as a reward for whatever desired behavior you are hoping to encourage – keeping their rooms clean, doing chores for a month, whatever fits your family!
So what is the connection between Capri Sun and our “yes day”? I’ve always been pretty picky about what I allow Josh to drink and/or eat. We try to stay away from too much sugar or high fructose corn syrup or artificial flavors and colors. Capri Sun has a line of beverages that contains no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial colors or preservatives. With Capri Sun available at Walmart, I feel comfortable saying YES when Josh asks if we can get some! And once he gets me saying yes to that, it’s easier to get me to say yes to…
a lobster lunch
climbing a tree
ice skating
catching a baseball game
robin rue says
There is a lot to be said about being prepared! I always have snacks and drinks for my kids just in case.
Theresa says
I say no to a lot of the junk that my kids ask for at the stores. I would definitely say “yes” to these Carpi Sun drinks. I like that they don’t have a lot of that added junk in them.
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
Being prepared is the key to having a yes day, in my opinion. When you’re ready for anything, you can say yes to anything!
Christie Cronan says
I do my best to make everyday a Yes day. I think it’s the best way to grab life by the horns and make it your own, especially when you have kids.
Mitch says
What a great Yes day! I would happily say yes to a lobster lunch, where do I sign up! Thanks for sharing this!
Marcie W. says
I love the idea of having a Yes Day! Starting in 2018, I think I will incorporate one per year for each of my children as a way for them to feel extra special. Thank you for the wonderful suggestion!
Liz Mays says
Bringing some Capri Sun pouches along in a cooler is definitely a good idea. These are some great “Yes Day” tips.
Pam says
I never did a yes day. You seem like you are really prepared for them.
AnnMarie John says
A yes day sounds like a lovely reward for the kids especially if they’ve been doing amazing in school or at home. I think this is something that we all should consider doing for them! Love the tips!
Sara Welch says
These are brilliant tips! It makes the day a little easier when you’re prepared, that’s for sure.
Claudia K says
A yes day sounds like a fun way to spend a day. Thank you for providing your tips and how you prepare for the day. I agree that having rules is important.
Toni | Boulder Locavore says
That sounds like a great drink and something my kids would enjoy. Looks like a fun day for you both!
Erin says
Aww that pic with Josh is so cute! I loved these tips, especially the Capri Sun. Seriously, that stuff can make ANY day better!
Kiwi says
Awesome yes day information. I grew up on Capri Sun interesting to see they are still around!
brianne says
Loving these tips! I so know what a yes day looks like!
SilverTeeny says
Saying “No” always do hurt me but we have to guide them as well. I like the tips you have mentioned.
Diana Elizabeth says
When friends kids visit us it’s very often “yes” days! Thank you for the tips and one can never go wrong with Capri Sun!
Janis @MommyBlogExpert says
Yes Day sounds like a wonderful way to reward kids for good behavior. Your son is adorable and he clearly enjoyed every moment of all those things mom said yes to.