This blog is unique to the rest of my blogs as it is not specific around a certain day out with kids in Hertfordshire. Instead, this is an idea I’ve been wanting to try for a while and oh yes- can be worked all over Hertfordshire, and beyond!
Have you ever tried a Yes Day with your little one? I’d heard about the idea a while back — a day where (within reason!) you say “yes” to your child’s suggestions and let them plan the day. With our middle daughter about to start Reception this September (how did that happen so fast? ), I thought it would be a perfect way to soak up some special time together before the school routine kicks in.
She absolutely loved the idea — you could see her little eyes light up at the thought of being in charge for a whole day! I did set a few simple boundaries (no trips to Disneyland or ponies in the garden ), but otherwise, the day was hers to plan.
Here’s how our Yes Day unfolded…
A Long Bike Ride in the Forest
First on her list? A really long bike ride in the forest. We packed some snacks, filled up the water bottles, grabbed the dog and her bike, and zoomed to the forest we went. The joy of this walk was really following her lead. She played Eenie meenie to decide which route at every twist and turn, and really enjoyed playing the leader and discovering her own path.
It was such a joy watching her zoom along the forest paths, stopping every so often to inspect bugs, pick flowers, and shout “Look at me, Mummy!” There’s something so magical about slowing down and seeing the world through a 4-year-old’s eyes.
We ended up spending much longer than I expected just exploring, giggling, and enjoying the fresh air. Honestly, I had as much fun as she did.
Lunch at McDonald’s
Next up — lunch. Without hesitation, she declared McDonald’s!
Now, I know it’s not the healthiest option, but this was her day. We ordered a takeaway away including a milkshake to share, and sat on the green grass outside ( her choice), munching on Happy Meals, chatting about her bike ride, and what she’s looking forward to when she starts school.
She even got her own Pokémon cards in the Happy Meal, something her big sister is just starting to get into. She couldn’t wait to show her! Again, the slowness of our picnic take away lunch bought so much simple joy. What was unusual about this picnic for her? It was all her choice. Her decisions. She loved being The Boss.
Soft Play Fun
With a full tummy and renewed energy, it was time for soft play. We headed to a local Hertfordshire soft play centre where she ran wild for well over an hour. I sipped a coffee and watched her tackle every obstacle with determination and pure joy.
It reminded me how important it is to give kids space to move and play without always rushing them along — another little life lesson for me tucked inside our Yes Day.
Shopping for School Uniforms
And finally, her last big request: shopping for school uniforms.
I must admit, I thought this would be more of a chore than a fun outing, but she surprised me. She loved choosing her little pinafores, trying on shoes, and proudly picking out a backpack “just like the big kids.” We ended the day with one of our favourite things to do together – baking a yummy cake and having ice-cream!
Why I Loved Saying “Yes”
At the end of the day, both of us were tired but grinning from ear to ear.
The beauty of a Yes Day is simple: it gives your child a sense of autonomy and builds their confidence. They get to practice decision-making, and you get a window into what lights them up inside.
For me, it was a brilliant reminder to slow down and truly be in the moment with my daughter. Often our days are filled with “we have to do this” and “not right now” — but for one special day, it was all about fun, togetherness, and yes.
I can’t recommend it enough! Whether your child is 4 or 14, a Yes Day is such a joyful way to bond, create memories, and let your child know that sometimes — their ideas matter most.
I think we might just make it an annual tradition.
