Some Words: The Library Lets Me Say "Yes!"

As a parent, I feel like half my vocabulary is made up of the word “No.”

No, we can’t buy that toy.

No, we don’t need more snacks.

No, you can't wear that fancy dress to the playground.

No, we don’t have time right now.

It’s exhausting for both me and the kiddo. Saying “no” is part of parenting, but sometimes I hate how much it shuts down everything. "No" is so negative. It's full of can'ts and don'ts. It also takes some of my kiddo's engagement and autonomy away. I'm not letting her do what she wants to do.

On a recent trip to our local library branch, I realized that's one place where I finally get to say "Yes!" 

Yes, you can grab that stack of books that’s bigger than you can carry.

Yes, you can play with that puzzle or game.

Yes, you can randomly join Mandarin story time.

Yes, you can do the glow in the dark face painting.

Yes, you can sit in a cozy chair and ask me to read book after book after book to you.

The library is one big "Yes!" to possibilities. We’re not spending money, we’re not cluttering up our house, and we’re not shutting down what the kiddo wants to do. Instead, we’re exploring, learning, and connecting.

Honestly, it feels like a gift. The library gives me a chance to nurture my kiddo’s curiosity without worrying about saying "No." And, that’s pretty magical.

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