‘Old Enough’ Generates Parenting Debate, Latest Netflix Sensation

[@hannahn7375]

This show actually made me feel so sorry for my children growing up in America. They will never know the true feeling of being raised by a village, a community, neighbors who feel like family and a culture that actually nurtures, protects and encourages children. I grew up in an African country where I experienced this and this show makes me miss home - or at least my old city of the past because things have changed, thanks to imported American culture.

[@meeks1201]

Yes! So much of it is about community and how they all look out for eachother- something that’s lacking in that Eurocentric way of life. It warms my heart to see these little ones gain confidence and independence from such a young age

[@youngsu8898]

Your comment made me really sad that my children and I grew up in America. I had the chance to do my first errand as a child in South Korea and will admit the US lacks the community support that kids need to be successful. I remember multiple times being on a bus and being assisted, walking alone and not being bothered, and being assisted at the store. But I come to the US and would never let my kids do that.

[@RG-jf5ep]

@@meeks1201 that is not Eurocentric… if you go to many places in Europe you’ll find many communities like this. This is more of a North American phenomenon, and also an urban/multicultural issue. I’m Canadian, and when I went to my husbands home country in Europe for the first time I almost cried lol I have never felt so supported and in a place where everyone knows eachother. Every meal we ate came from different foods we got from the neighbours and his family knows everyone in the town for generations. We stayed for a festival that they’ve been holding for hundreds of years. In Canada, I can’t do that. I can’t talk to my neighbours because we don’t speak the same language. We don’t have any long standing traditions or culture. It’s so different and isolating compared to other places I’ve lived in and travelled to

[@hannahn7375]

@@RG-jf5ep Wow, I can actually imagine how you felt in your husband's country. I'm glad you at least have that now in your life and will return as much as you can to soak it up. If you don't mind, please tell me what country that is. I'll love to visit too :)

[@haileyjuliasuarez6988]

All children

[@chilyfeforever6252]

American parents really shouldnt he giving "parenting advice" considering we have the worst kids, who grow into even worse adults.

[@MarcoGerome]

Exactly. American kids disrespecting their parents, and parents letting them to be because punishing them may lead to lawsuiys filed by their own spouled brat childrens... Teaching a child how to be responsible is letting them run errands, teaching them good manners, right conduct, and differentiating what is right and what is wrong, and teaching them how to become a human being.

[@normalguy5111]

That why School shooting is popular in US.

[@chilyfeforever6252]

@@MarcoGerome that takes effort, something I see most parents I know continually complain about. Like they didnt make the choice themselves and take the actions themselves that led them to become parents. Then want to blame the teachers, the system, society, their friends and social media when their kids turn into sh$tbags.

[@msgreeny2825]

@@MarcoGerome and dressing 6 year old girls like adults, doing extrem heavy make up on them, letting them fake smile for the judges, putting them into beauty contest shows.. Wtf... Smh...

[@leesmile8147]

We have the worst kids? You have I don’t…we have the worst parents like you or the ones you have.

[@hanapackard2340]

Having originally grown up in Japan, I can attest to the fact that it’s a very safe country with low crime. That’s why this is more possible. I remember having fun going on small errands on my own (I think I was six years old), walking our dog alone, going on public transit on my own as an elementary schooler, or even going alone to play with friends as a child. There was also this social concept that children are communally looked out for. Everyone in the community knew each other. Nice older ladies, neighbors, and other adults would look out for the kids too when we went to play together. That’s what a healthy society needs to be.

[@Incognito-bo2he]

That would never happen to the US. Everyone there is too busy making gender pronouns, arguing about the shape of the planet and shooting students while in school

[@personofpowera.b.c990]

I love the thought of being able to have a trust in the people in my neighborhood. I hear from my parent and grandparents how that was the case when they were kids, and it frustrates me to think that we’ve left that tradition in the dust. You can also see the scary side affects of leaving that trust. I love America, but there is definitely room for improvement 😅

[@Steak818]

@@personofpowera.b.c990 Exacerbated capitalism is a poison that destroys cultures and people, and the US are the pioneer in it.

[@John3.36]

Low crime prosecution would be more accurate.

[@simplyrin210]

It’s not about the crime rate, I dont think. People in the US just blow things out of proportion.

[@sunshine09944]

I love this show. Another example of a different culture being smarter

[@velopura4778]

Homogenous is another, better explanation - cultures that are the same are more alike in thought and action than different.

[@paranoidhumanoid]

@@velopura4778 Homogeneity is always the signal from the far right -- even homogenous cultures have civil strife at some points throughout their history. Japan went through hundreds of years of bloody civil wars (Warring States Period) and they were even more homogenous back then so that argument doesn't really stand. I think you're failing to look at how their society values education (versus anti-intellectualism here in the US), social protocols (respect for ceremonies, institutions, and hierarchy), discipline and adherence to societal/familial values. Even the non-Japanese residents living in Japan all follow these norms. Americans are undisciplined and glorify rebelliousness so when you have an entire society that praises being a "rebel" for the sake of "freedom", you don't have harmony within itself or even within a community or family.

[@Katzelle3]

@@velopura4778 Homogeneity does not exist There is plenty of discrimination within Japan alone Like seriously it does not matter if their hair and eye colors are the same They would start comparing nose sizes instead

[@Jasmine-lj8qw]

The show entails a certain era of trusting in your children and the parenting from the start you teach your children at a young age you dedicate yourself to teach your children at a young age and you get good results. Point blank

[@DJ_TRON]

Stupidity. letting a 3 year old walk by themselves is stupid no matter what country they're in. not to mention, asia has one of the highest pedestrian fatalities in the world.

[@tobutori]

As someone who has loved watching this show long before it became available on Netflix, I can say that it’s very popular in Japan and the Japanese-speaking communities abroad. Some of these footages are old, but I’m glad that American viewers are finding it entertaining. These kids are very cute, and you’d want to cheer them on!

[@Amexella]

i remember watching this show along with Takeshí's castle when i was about 4 before i moved to another country, i remember i was able to buy groceries alone until i moved into a big city

[@Tz3952ii]

@@Amexella Yes that's probably the case for most countries even today. Big cities are full of crimes every country except America, crimes everywhere

[@AlvinAnakMudaPlayedAGame]

The show’s been going on for more than 25 years, i can assure you it will keep going on

[@sidneycute2006]

One thing missing from this discussion is the reality of how the system in Japan has been geared towards child safety for years. I am not Japanese though I currently live in Japan, so I cannot attest as to how long this has been going on. But I am impressed with the system in place (at least the ones I've seen). In the past, most street crossings would have tiny bright yellow-colored flag in a container attached to a pole near the crossing. The idea is for the child to take that flag while crossing, so everyone could see them and be alert of their safety, and once they crossed the street, the child simply put the flag in another flag container at the opposite end of the crossing. I think these days, they replaced the flag with this bright-colored cloth covering school children's backpack, and most school children wear bright-colored school hats that can be easily spotted by adults. Crimes do happen, but there's a sense of safety and trust in general that it's so common to see young kids taking public transport and walking all by themselves (although I admit in the bustling Tokyo a 3 year-old exploring by themselves is rare indeed. It'd be interesting to a see a similar American TV show on this although I think it's not really something you should compare with. Many foreigners coming here are generally quite pleasantly surprised to see how independent kids can be, which goes to show just how much safer it is compared to many other countries.

[@frejlord6794]

Facts

[@andromedamessier3176]

Look I just got back from coffeehouse crime about Japanese children got kidnapped etc. And this came recommended to me (eerie indeed) I don’t know how safe it is, but there is always that 1%

[@sidneycute2006]

@@andromedamessier3176 Indeed, which is why I said crimes do happen. The fact that so much safety precaution in place stemmed from such crimes hence the government went to such length to try preventing that from happening. I didn’t try to set out to say it’s super safe in Japan. It’s NOT, and when crimes happen it can be very scary and just disturbing (I’ve read a fair share of criminal cases happening in Japan in the past, particularly against children and women… It’s very concerning) However, in comparison to the US, and I believe there are other countries beside the US, it is safer. Precaution is always needed, however. But such is the safety that school kids can go to school on their own without being fear of kidnapping

[@andromedamessier3176]

@@sidneycute2006 actually I just talk to my Japanese friend, and he said that most people agree for their kids to do the show because they know there are camera crews following them around. It is not safe entirely. When he was a kid, his mom actually follow him to the shop too. The thing is no matter how precaution is in place, there is always that 1%. That is what I mean. So, it is better for family members to follow the kid at the distance.

[@andromedamessier3176]

@@sidneycute2006 Also having a sense of safety is good, but people tend to forget there are that 1% or 2%. Even in the US as well. I doubt I would get shot just because I was in a grocery store. You know what I mean? It depends on how the media frame it.

[@thetiredtrademarkseal]

This is also an old long-running show that started in 1991 in Japan under the name "My First Errand". Netflix started with only the newer episodes. The "first errand" is a rite of passage in Japan. The show didn't cook up the idea of making the kids run errands. They just made a show about this common practice. Kids in Japan also go to school on their own. They ride trains, buses, etc. without a chaperone.

[@usnairframer]

I think the “Old Enough!” title is a Netflix thing since the direct translation is はじめてのおつかい (Hajimete No Otsukai) “My First Errand.” I love that you point out that what’s happening in this show is only incredible to western audiences, since here in Japan it’s completely normal. It’s only the “first errand” that is important. We tried doing this with my daughter here but between moving back and forth to the US and Japan and an over exposure to other American children and culture she hasn’t gotten to this point yet. Though she did walk to school by herself once (without telling us and making us panic since the school was closed). Lol

[@matewhatthefuck6516]

@@usnairframer True. I've been watching this show for a long time pre-Netflix and it was always "My First Errand". Got confused when they said it's called "Old Enough", but I suppose that's just localisation.

[@Thenevisian]

omg. only Americans will see something halfway across the globe, know nothing about it , and criticize it. for goodness sakes!

[@lillyblovesme]

no , every nationality does that.

[@Yellowflamingo3456]

Lol thats bc americans are jealous

[@kingrobotnik6950]

@@lillyblovesme not South Korea

[@dwanyewest]

Americans are very ethnocentric in their worldview

[@kristallmett7843]

they only said that they would not do that in the US. So nothing against Japan doing it

[@usergoogle3382]

For us Japanese, this show is familiar to us, so I was surprised to see so much discussion about it. Many Japanese watch this show with a smile.

[@Moss_piglets]

I'm not surprised that there is a debate over this even though there shouldn't be. Most Americans know nothing about other cultures outside this country. It's very important when watching this show that people educate themselves first about Japanese culture to avoid jumping into conclusions. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world. It's not uncommon in Asia to send their children on errands. I'm American. We lived in Asia when I was a child, Japan is one of them. I'm lucky to have been able to do errands and play outside with other kids without my parents hovering above us. Mind you, we lived mostly in developing nations near slums areas. The kids were outside and we knew everyone. Adults watched others kids too. So it was a whole village raising children. Children need to be given small tasks that are age appropriate so they learn some independence and build confidence. American kids are too anxious and afraid. Parents are the same too. If only we can learn from other cultures on how to raise children, perhaps we would have more confident children. Anyway, when we came back to the US my parents were stricter, I wasn't even able to take the subway until I was 15 and my school was 5 stops away! 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@dixie0625]

I think it's a great idea to give kids greater freedom, but I think the helicopter-parent culture in the US has less to do with "Trusting kids" as not trusting other people out there. Before the 80s, when celebrity John Walsh's little boy was abducted and murdered (sparking the whole "stranger danger" movement), kids in the US were given more independence. Also, the 80s was about the time that many states discontinued operations at state-run psychiatric facilities. Sadly, there are pretty big human trafficking and mental health issues in the US, so the fear of others isn't totally unfounded.

[@anastasia-fr1gn]

Most Americans have an idea of Japan being “very safe” so while they don’t know a lot about Japanese culture there is that. However I would be wary of this too considering I’m used to hearing about child abductions and murderers…just too scared of people out there. And I’ve read about Japanese kidnappings too…it’s not as dangerous as the US but it exists. I guess that fear is hard to shake off. I’d not want to take that chance. Although someone mentioned that secretly following the child to watch them is a good idea. Just for extra caution.

[@tperk]

@@dixie0625 We've had stranger danger for about three decades now. Faces of missing kids on milk boxes, ongoing amber alerts, kidnappings and human trafficking on every newscast and podcast for a generation or more. Although statistically there is a low chance of these crimes happening to you or your kid, there is absolutely no way parents would give this freedom to U.S. children.

[@KonekoCat.]

Koreans do this too, children are trusted with responsibilities and the parents are ok with them going alone, the children are also helped by the grown ups on the street, who seem to make sure the child is safe or not.

[@user-wr9lh4ly1n]

those kids appeared in the show reappear in the show 15-20 yrs later! Not sure if Netflix version has that part but the original version from Japan does. It's the real fun part of the show. They show how their life is like as adults; occupation, marital status, kids, hobbies, etc.

[@ianhomerpura8937]

Problem is finding full episodes is hard.

[@jimmyferris]

The kids are so cute. And I cheer them on. The first one almost gave me heart palpitations but the rest of them did not. Also the cameramen are there and if you watch it a lot of the people help them.

[@pandecocojam]

I grew up in the Philippines and we were raised to do small errands like these as well when we were young children.

[@CKN215]

I lived in Asia for 10 years, and this is fine there, but we couldn’t do it in America. First, American car drivers are too careless, and second we have a higher rate of kidnapping and child abuse. Japan’s honor-shame based culture simply makes this possible.

[@samanthacastillo9033]

This show had been tearing up! Such smart babies 🥹

[@mariamarie862]

That's beautiful when your country is that safe. Sorry America just too violent that couldn't happen here. Amber alerts every hour

[@lauraw6371]

And all of the American gun violence! Japan is so much safer

[@fanglee498]

In Japan you could literally leave a bike unlocked in a major city like Tokyo and the general population wouldn’t steal it. In America bikes aren’t safe even with a lock. So you can’t really judge would what be obviously unsafe in America as the same over there

[@GregInTokyo]

For those saying "this wouldn't work in America" you really should ask why that is the case and how did one of the world's most advanced countries become that way. I think we can all agree that having a society where kids are able to walk around by themselves and be kept safe by a caring community is something that should be strived for. It's this caring that made me end up living more or less permanently in Japan. I've been watching this program ever since it started and seeing how the kids deal with issues along the way is the highlight. The one thing that does make me uncomfortable in the full program though, is after they show a segment sometimes it transitions to a screen that says "and now, 20 years later..." and then you see what was these cute little kids now in high school or university or even adults with kids of their own and sending them out on their first errand. You then realize how fast time passes and that your own kids will also grow up too soon.

[@non-toxicplayer3107]

Because when people see a 8 year old child walking on the side of the highway, they will naturally stop and try to find their parents. Getting a bag of potato chips at the store isnt worth risking your childs life. Maybe ok in Japan, but definitely not in the US

[@QueenSoap]

Very true! People need to be asking, why not in the U.S.

[@_NoHandle_]

The Adam Walsh abduction and murder changed how US parents protected their children. It happened in the 80s. There have been articles written about it, you can look it up.

[@harrylane4]

This worked in japan because they literally have people watching hte kid every step of the way. Every single shot you can see somebody dressed as a mailman or an old lady with a bag (the bag is actually a camera) watching the kid. This has nothing to do with the culture, and everything to do with the kids being put in a safe place to do their thing.

[@QueenSoap]

@@non-toxicplayer3107 Or--- maybe the parents in Japan feel like they're raising their kid to be independent and what you see as "risking lives" is actually saving lives because kids are raised to be observant and prudent. An 8 year old is actually very capable and smart, and American parents love to use the excuse of protecting children to justify the over coddling of their children which is not at all to their benefit, and more to make parents feel good about their parenting

[@QueenSoap]

I think this is great. Western countries have taken an extreme position when it comes to kids, especially Americans. Culturally we went from thinking kids as young young as 10 could rule nations to some people now thinking that asking a child to pick up a toy is traumatizing. There has to be a medium, and this show proves that kids are more capable than we realize.

[@merrytunes8697]

Growing up a latch key kid in the '80s, I wish I could have been considered responsible enough to walk to the store and answer the door alone. Once I was in the house, I was supposed to stay there, alone, and not answer the door or phone. Very lonely existence

[@matteusconnollius1203]

Kids as young as 10 didn't really ever rule nations, hereditary monarchs that young always had a regent of some sort

[@QueenSoap]

@@matteusconnollius1203 I think that misses the point. Trump was a toddler at the white house but he was still president and had power. These 10 year olds were still responsible for nations even if they were being managed, and a big enough tantrum meant war and all sorts of craziness. Also...the bigger point I was making had to do with the drastic contrast between the two attitudes toward younger people from thinking they can do everything to thinking they can't do anything.

[@mujtabaalam5907]

@@matteusconnollius1203 every leader has regents, they can't do everything themselves. It's just a matter of how much is delegated

[@jessicap3643]

I love this show! I love how you can see every child’s confidence really grow throughout each episode. Watching the show as an American also made me see that people all across the globe really are the same. These kids aren’t different or smarter than other kids, they behave just like every toddler I’ve ever known. So sweet, 2 thumbs up!

[@mslettucebfrank]

This show has been for on FOREVER in Japan, I used to watch it when my family was stationed in Okinawa when I was six; I’m almost 30 now.

[@KonekoCat.]

Lol, only America thinks that things that don't have anything to do with them are "new". Apparently if it wasn't ran by them they won't think anything like this was a thing. I remember something similar to this, kids going on errands by themselves but, with the help of good local people they we're able to get what they need and go home safe and sound.

[@Wongseifu548]

Seriously you cannot make this comparison culturally because there are a lot of countries with different ideas on how to parent

[@sshukla7975]

First, know Japanese culture. It's common for them, society is buikt around respect, honor and honesty. Can you imagine losing a wallet and getting it back. Japan has lost and found system and people turn things up from books to big bags. That's how respectful and honest people are. Police are at every corner but not for crimes but to help society. Japanese police themselves. So you first build a society which is that safe and respectful then talk anymore. Japanese have been destroyed many times by human and nature alike but that nation builds itself up all the time. No wonder they instil that from young age. I respect them from inner most corner of my heart. In USA, leave a child and pedo and traffickers will have field day. Kids are not safe in Disney land and world. Not safe in their own homes. So stop looking at them weird judge yourself first. 🙏

[@richardpaquette8429]

Beautiful🤟 American culture is built upon disrespect, dishonor and lies. Sadly Americans have lost the meaning of respect, honor and honesty

[@oliviaedralin1436]

I am a fan of Japan and Japanese culture and their shown respect for others, their craftsmanship… I love learning about their culture , system , respect for their elders, nature.

[@KonekoCat.]

I've noticed that people would drop their wallets and definitely would find them in the lost in found because some kind samaritan would return it. If this was the u.s you'd definitely find some bills missing.

[@sshukla7975]

@@KonekoCat.bills!! Oh honey we won't find the wallet back either. 😂🤣..identity would be stolen and credit cards maxed out. Plus they might show up at your place and rob you too. Had been scammed out of 800$ by just losing the wallet. Of course in USA.

[@pkattk]

Pedophilia is a rampant problem in Japan…

[@jakejapan8694]

The adults in the U.S who criticize this tv show negativity should give it a try. Pause your life and go watch it. It is so good

[@malhar__8932]

This show used to air in India on pogo and it was one of the most engaging show for a 12 year old me. It's like a little adventure show. Exept it's just a trip to the store. It's normal for us but for a toddler it's a Indiana Jones mission! We need reality shows like these. That actually relates to the common man and explores the mandane life in a new light!

[@Amexella]

YES THIS SHOW AND TAKESHI'S SHOW WERE SO FUN AS A KID

[@DenTn30]

I started doing errands (buying snacks in stores) at 4 years old and alone 😂 i think it really depends on the culture and safety of the place/neighborhood. I live in the Philippines and it’s not unusual for many kids in my generation to do this growing up too

[@AllWorldBeautiful]

True. Kids in the Philippines walk to school or take public transpo. Not a big deal.

[@Amexella]

it's common in pakistan too, i used to do that until i moved TT

[@Tz3952ii]

Exactly. It's just America and some other Western nations reacting like this to this show. But I should say Japan is a little different that this can happen even in the big cities like Tokyo that's very unlikely in most countries.

[@mrswilmacross74]

I was run over by tricycle cause uncles and mama’s send me to buy tuba(coconut wine) age 6 or 7 I believed 😂 I myself was tipsy a little cause uncles give me a sip of tuba🥴that’s why I didn’t noticed the tricycle to my left before crossing the streets.

[@Moonsnowrose]

Same. My first errand was when I was 5, but I did it with my kuya. At 7 years old my kuya was able to go to and from school on his own, I didn't because I was ill when I was younger

[@entropybear5847]

I love that America, a dying society still feels it's in any position to criticise a healthy culture where kids are safe to go to the shop. The arrogance is as always, blinding and hilariously hypocritical.

[@Ray-qh9cm]

Typically white people 😅

[@jonathankidwell6889]

Japan is literally dying. Economy has been in the trash for 30 years, birth rate is near nonexistent. I do like that they let their kids do stuff though.

[@amys2168]

This is not just a cultural difference, but it is a generational difference as well. In the 1980's I had the freedom to ride my bike a mile to the store at 8 or 9 years old with my friends. Now children are constantly supervised and it's a struggle to even see any children playing outside. Sending toddlers out on errands is too young for my preference, but certainly it helps old children to have more independence and proactive action when they have play and responsibilities sans adults.

[@_NoHandle_]

The Adam Walsh murder occurred in the 80s. There have been several articles written on how that event forever changed the way Americans protect their kids.

[@ianhomerpura8937]

Just curious what made parents afraid to send children to errands. In other countries, even with kidnappings and all, they still sent their children outside. Helps instill a sense of independence.

[@AaronCMounts]

@@ianhomerpura8937 The availability heuristic, coupled with 24-hr news media, financially beholden to sensationalism is to blame. This has directly fostered excessive proliferation of "mean world syndrome", the pervasive (and statistically *wrong*) notion that the world is more dangerous or crime-ridden now than it was in the past. The USA is a country of about 330,000,000 people. In total across the country, we see an estimated 100 actual "stranger danger" kidnappings, each year. Obviously, they happen, but at such a negligibly low rate that there's no real basis for genuine fear of it; much less to go to the extremes we do in restricting our nation's children's inherent needs to explore and experience the real world they live and grow up in.

[@hufflepuffxlovex]

It's funny cause a lot of people are blaming us millennial buy honestly who raised us and started the trend? There's a reason why my generation is the most depressed and anxious and why we're trying to break the cycle before it continues

[@rejoicealways01]

it's Japanese culture, and I appreciate it. it helps the kids be confident and be responsible. i wished my parents raised me like this.

[@rickaw6819]

This is good example of how safe is Japan. Every nation, if safe as Japan, life would be more peaceful …

[@petebeauds7181]

We used to watch this show when I lived in Japan, the show plants adults all along the path the children walk, sometimes dressed as folks working for the city or at cross walks, they take every precaution to ensure the children's safety. Parents don't just send their kids on errands without a plan and Japan is not Canada or America, generally it is a much safer country. Not saying there are no dangerous people in Japan, there are, stalking is a serious problem in Japan but this show was always fun to watch knowing the children were never in any danger at all.

[@MyAccountForCommenting]

According to people in these comments, in reality, the parents do actually send the kids out without the plants that we see on the show. They are saying that this practice of first errands is a real thing.

[@ryoukokonpaku1575]

​@@MyAccountForCommentingyes I see 5 year olds in groups or alone all the time going to school. Some even asked me for directions when they were lost at the huge maze known as Tokyo station lol. It's basically a right of passage for kids here, parents aren't always available to chaperon kids and letting them help out on errands is great, and based on what my married workmate says. They usually love it since they get to keep the pocket change to buy something for themselves.

[@erikutz]

This brings me back to when I was also very little and would be asked to go to the store back home in the Philippines. Shows how different life is from growing up in North America.

[@josephinepura525]

It's still the same here nowadays.

[@susanwang266]

The show simply shows how resilient kids can be if given the opportunity. Ie: The little girl who problem solved in order to pull the cabbage. The boy with the fish, apples and largest cans of powder milk, etc. Baby birds with wings are meant to fly someday. Give them a chance and they'll show you.

[@aquariusdream0205]

Can some Americans STOP acting like they know everything??? While experts in America said it's good, why some Americans acting like it's a crime? And some Americans will love to guide their kids to do the same too. In Japan, it's SAFE to do it and their culture and environment allows them to do it while USA unable to do it doesn't meant that it's happening to everyone in this world. 😮‍💨 Do they even try to understand the Japanese culture first before making such bad comments, like calling the parents criminals??

[@KonekoCat.]

The fact that even the crew would go out of their way to intervene when something happens, shows that they are still honorable and true hearted, in other countries they'd probably be too "busy" capturing the moment for the sake of drama.

[@Shinde16]

America can never do this too dangerous. But Japan and Korea have done this for decades. Safer countries can do this.

[@animal0mother]

America would've been able to do this 50 years ago.

[@Wokegooglers]

I remember walking to school starting from the 3rd grade because my parents had to work and couldn’t drive me to school, same with many other kids. Now people would freak out at the same situation here in the US because they’re overly sensitive and coddle their kids too much to the point that they can’t function without parental help.

[@rebeccacampbell8020]

I think we all would feel more comfortable with this if judges weren’t busy slapping child molesters on the wrist.

[@malu5117]

It's so dumb that this should be a debate Japan is it's own country they have different ways of educating children than in the US . At a young age they are already tought to be independent not every culture revolves around the states *sigh* And japan is generally quite safe so.. I don't know why people are so offended about this

[@shurinhaha]

Americans have to understand that the Japanese have their own lifestyle and environment. You simply cannot apply whatever you've experienced in your country on others - it doesn't work like this. Kids in Japan (and in many parts of Asia) can do this because it's simply safer...

[@dancoulson6579]

Considering how Japan has one of the lowest crime rates, lowest rates of violence, and their people are so long living, I don't think we in the west have any authority to judge their parenting skills. If anything, most of the world could do with taking a few leaves from Japan's book...

[@billlafferty8986]

Old Enough has just completed filming in Toronto Canada to be shown on TVO. It can be done here!

[@b.l70]

Why is this even a debate? I'm so tired of Americans having an opinion on everything. Why can't they just be amaze and respect the fact that Japan is a MUCH SAFER place for its citizen? And ask themselves "what can WE change in our country so that our kids can grow up with the same kind of safety too?".

[@oritsegee]

I am inspired by the kids' creativity and the sense of responsibility at that young age. Even if it is not safe to send kids grocery shopping everywhere, this should encourage parents to create opportunities for independence within the safety of the home.

[@user-pn9db8sm5w]

I agree with this. Children in America used to be taught about personal saftey due to there being so many child predators, I hope they still are. But it can be balanced out by doing what you've suggested. I was given advice to try to find ways to let my children make decisions, choose things for themselves. It's not the same as sending them off alone somewhere but it did help them develop new skills. I had a van so I'd take my children and their friends on safer outings, stay off at the side while the group had fun on their own.

[@Theweeze100]

My 3, 4 and five--year-olds in Guadalajara Jalisco Mexico, were able to walk the streets… Go to the store all along knowing that neighbors were looking after them. We never freaked out about it, it’s like the US of 60 years ago… I wish we saw that that was where we came from and there’s nothing abnormal about it as long as the society cloisters around the good of the community.

[@comets4sale]

I live in Tokyo and see elementary kids navigating the rail system solo all the time.

[@allbusinessmatters]

I'm with Roker on this. My mom and granddad, too, never hesitated to stick a quarter in my hand (a nickel for me and 20 cents for the purchase) and send me and my brothers and sisters off to the store as the need arose when we were 3 and 4. Of course, we didn't go very far--maybe 2 blocks--but we got there and back. This was in New Jersey across the Delaware River from Philly and it was the 1950s. Along the way, we'd see kids we knew but we always got home because mom always said "go straight to the store and come straight home" every time. It's not only crime that's the problem, although if you live in a neighborhood where you know the neighbors and the neighbors know your kids and are watching, that's not much of an issue. The big problem are motor vehicles/pickups that disregard stop signs, speed limits, talk on phones, and generally don't give a s*** about anyone else, let alone pedestrians. Nevertheless, as our kids got to be around 4 or 5, my wife (who also grew up on the East Coast) and I rarely hesitated to let our children go off on their bikes to a friend's house or the "corner market" with the same admonition, "go straight there and come straight home."

[@PcfulSol]

In the USA. We could never do this. I find it wonderful what other countries are doing to preparing little humans for the future. They also have museums where the child can pretend to work at fast food restaurants, markets etc. the US need to learn a few things from certain countries. Instead we are worried about gender roles…like “should a boy have a play kitchen set?” Meme…how pathetic

[@Katzelle3]

The problem is cars actually

[@rramirez3095]

I was raised learning to do errands and chores for my mom. I believe it helped me be more self sufficient and confident that I can learn new things and engage more in activities.

[@jonnyvegasxd4058]

I trust my kids, I don't trust other people.

[@ComfyBoi404]

I'm reading through a lot of these comments and while yes, Japan is a much safer country and has vastly better child protection policies/protocols. This same concept of child independence can be seen in other parts of the world that aren't that similar. As a Mexican-American who has been to Mexico every summer in a moderately sized rural village (pueblo) in the state of Puebla since the age of 3, I've noticed that a lot kids run errands and even small part-time jobs on their own or with minimal supervision at the age 5 and above. I remember being tasked multiple times to head afoot (later on a bike when I learned to ride one) to the neighbouring village with nothing more than some loose change, sombrero, water and bag to get groceries. The same way my parents did years ago when they were children. Mind you, the infrastructure and roads aren't that well-kept and a relatively large river had to be crossed on route. But Nonetheless, I felt pretty safe unlike doing something similar back home in the US. Years later I soon realized why that might've been the case. It's because (to me at least) of that "village/co-operative oriented" concept that the US lacks so much of. I actively knew the people I'd encounter on my journey to the store, at home, or on a day-to-day stroll. Providing and receiving help mostly whenever needed. People in the US are so much more individualistic that it seems to seep into their social norms and infrastructure. Unless it's a major city, everything is so separated! Homes, schools, stores, and even parks- to the point that you're often expected to fend solely for yourself in times of need and trouble. It's sad, really.

[@feyelsbells7839]

it IS sad. i want it to change. respect for the individual is important but what is it worth without a sense of belonging? the two should go hand in hand. there's no reason we can't be individualist AND let kids go places by themselves! if anything, that's a level of independence that only community can bring. i guess we would have to start with making american infrastructure less reliant on cars, considering that's easily the most dangerous thing abt america. probably a good idea anyway

[@deeptracy23]

Meanwhile, American children from the ages of 18-32 need their safe spaces from words that hurt their feelings.

[@KonekoCat.]

These are NOT children but, yeah.

[@Nostalgic90s765]

Having lived in Japan for 8 years, this show didn't surprise me. There's many reasons why it works there that might not make it work here. One is Japan is very pedestrian friendly - many people bike or walk everywhere. Two, generally speaking, it is safer. Three, Japanese children are ingrained with basic housework, chores etc from a younger age than in America generally speaking. AND a big one - most of the mothers on the show are housewives, so the errands that the kids are going on are the same errands that they already accompany their mother with doing every day (most people in Japan don't buy in bulk, shopping is a daily activity), hence they know the routes to and from and know the people who work at the stores.

[@PreciousAlpschindler]

Japan is best country to live on earth

[@ShinyMew151]

if this happened in America, a meddling Karen will call child protective service

[@ByteDeity]

Karen would also call the police on children for completing an errand while being non-white

[@KonekoCat.]

But they'd come too, so even the laws would not think this would be ok. So I guess it's not really just the parents it's the entire system that are against this.

[@chynakissz]

It’s so cute!! I’ve watched all 20 episodes already. Glad they’re not actually alone.

[@ChillDfect]

It looks to me like an American media company is trying to manufacture a debate where there really is none.

[@jbdeadangel]

those who are criticizing the show are just jealous that they don't live in a safe kid friendly society 🤣

[@jeanbastien9424]

My sister just started walking to school alone at 12. She lives on the same block as the school. I remember walking to and from school at half that age. Its sad, she’s more used to talking to her friends on zoom than going to the park with them.

[@elbeth1505]

This show made me want to raise my kids in japan❤ I loved it and I want a season 3

[@greensky01]

Seems like mass shootings and kidnappings aren't a big thing in Japan. Western nations could learn much from this.

[@anayashajane]

I love this show. Please continue it for infinity seasons 👍🏼💙

[@vrijegeest]

Americans will never understand. Asian kids are simply raised differently. At two and a half I bought eggs and vinegar from the community store by myself. At 6 years old my sick mother asked me to withdraw money at our community bank. The guard approached me and asked if I needed any help. I handed her a note from my mother. He then brought me to the teller who helped me. Those were the days

[@Amexella]

I used to buy eggs and bread at age 3 by myself and went to school alone as well, those were the old good days

[@Serenity113]

I see small glimpses of this at work. I work in retail and sometimes at the register I get parents trying to teach their kids about money and purchasing their own stuff. Some can barely reach the top of the counter and others are a little older. But the moms would try to let them buy and handle their money on their own.

[@klaudiacocini645]

I encourage the show, for the simple reason that we saw how proud they were to succeed such achievement. Many people are against it, and some of those people are the ones that enforce independence on their children. The show is perfect but that little change cannot be possible in a place with so much criminality, especially when criminals have more right than the victims. Maybe that is why some people judge the show wrong.

[@anshul.m]

It is normal in India, here kids ride bicycle, cross river, walk through mountains & valleys, cover 10-20 kms daily to visit schools.

[@retahdude]

Says a lot about how safe our country is.

[@boy15island8]

Japan is a safe country,but don't let your kids at this age walk alone on the street here.Maybe you can if you live in small island in Okinawa

[@uikaatuniv5961]

ah, this is just TV show. actually in japan, it is unusual that parents ask children 2-3years old to shop by theirselves. the parents in this show rely on the camera staff. it is said that japan is one of the safest countries,but people in japan always beware of any accidents.

[@ryoukokonpaku1575]

Yeah it's usually 5 years old up that does errands alone. I guess parents feel ok with 2-3 since the show has assurance but it's common to go completely unsupervised for 5 yrs and up. I see them all the time at the station while going to work and my married workmate confirms he let's her own 7 year old daughter go to school that's 20km from home alone. I think it's a difference on perspective. Asia does it regularly even if it's not as safe as Japan. I originally lived in the Philippines before I moved here to Japan, I remember doing errands as young as 4 years old to buy some eggs and keeping the spare change to buy sweets for myself. This is in spite of the PH being not as safe as Japan or even the US in that matter.

[@hs6410]

I grown up in Japan and didn't feel danger. I think neighborhood community is aware of protecting the children. Maybe it's different in big cities like Tokyo. Once when I went out with my dad. A young man who was frightened asked me, 'Is he really your dad?' He thought I was probably kidnapped. (My dad looks like a YAKUZA😂)

[@Port712]

Trust me, if you watch any episode of this "Old Enough!" with a few glasses of wine, you can cry like a baby! It's really good to finish the week to refresh yourself for Monday.

[@starther]

Why do you need a few glasses of wine to cry? Can't you do it without? Sorry, I don't mean to be rude.

[@user-wr9lh4ly1n]

"Would you let your kids do this?" I myself is an adult scared to go outside in New York City. They can do this in Japan because Japan is safe!

[@Katzelle3]

New York should be pretty safe though in daytime

[@ryoukokonpaku1575]

Is it as bad as some places in SEA though? It's actually a common practice in Asia and I'd wager they're not as safe as the US yet still does it.

[@anygoodmedia]

When she said that why kids grow up anxious and depressed I felt that

[@mikegriffin104]

JAPAN does not have the SWEET DIVERSITY that is plaguing the WEST.

[@barulicksama3838]

Ur claiming they do this for the camera, but it's a common practice in Japan. They all do this without any crew, many years.

[@JuliaGeick]

Parents in the show don't just send their kids out on an errand like that. If you watch the show, you will see that they prepare their children,teaching them the way to the grocery store or showing them how to safely cross a street etc. Oftentimes, the store owners or even neighbors are informed too and keep a watchful eye. Also, some of the kids wear a piece of clothing that states that they are on their first errand so people know what's going on. Sure, this is not possible in every country but I think many Americans will be surprised how independent kids in other countries are. Same here in Germany, many Americans are so shocked when they see children taking the train to school on their own.

[@Love_To_Be_Love]

I love this show! And love how they teach the children and confidence!

[@KonekoCat.]

The only time you'd see a child run errands alone in the US is in the movie 'Home Alone' with Macaulay Culkin. 🤣

[@shiromitsuu]

少なからず私が子供であった30年以上前でも 日本ではこれが普通でした。 幼稚園では、交通教室が行われ 横断歩道の渡り方を教わります。 小学生になると、『通学路』という 決められたルートを小学生だけで歩いて学校に通います。 しかし行きと帰りには 地域ボランティアの人が信号機のある道に立って 子供たちの安全を見守ります。 『はじめてのおつかい』も いつも行くお店で、一緒にいる時に何度かお金の支払い方などチャレンジさせて、 様子を見て、子供を送り出します。 子供のステップアップであると同時に 親にとっても、子供を信じて待つことが、ひとつの成長に繋がります。 日本では子供たちだけで遊ぶことも多く、 子供は守るべきもの、という考えが根付いています。 大人同士も、連携やコミュニケーションが出来ているので地域で見守ることが当たり前になっています。 今まで当たり前すぎて、 え？普通の事なのに、 なんで世界の人がこんなに驚いてるの？と思ってましたが、 子供たちが安心して笑っていられる世界が当たり前、になるといいですね。

[@MarcoGerome]

Old Enough! is not an irresponsible reality show, some Americans letting their child become spoiled brats is...

[@AlvinAnakMudaPlayedAGame]

When I lived in Indonesia, there’s a TV channel called “S (Sony) Gem”, that airs this show, i knew i would love and i was right, my mom absolutely loved this too, while my dad and sis enjoyed it but not as much as her, this show has become my family’s favorite.

[@jeno6466]

ok Netflix need to add Return Of Superman. it’s another wholesome kid’s show but from South Korea

[@competingcoot4756]

Japan is less car-dependent than the US. Better public transportation has more pedestrians and more people walking about in public creates a sense of safety that you wouldn't receive when cars drive past you.

[@Kaizer-nz9uo]

I view it as how safe Japan is.

[@akane3549]

Let us all be honest, Americans are critical to this because they never experienced to be in a caring community. Plus, America is not a safe place for kids. There's a lot of pedos and criminals on their streets that's why they are anxious of letting their kids out of the house.

[@kds365]

Really shows us how terrible and dangerous our cities have become.

[@luluraeven]

This show has been airing on/off since 1991. The Japanese title "Hajimete no Otsukai" translates to "My First Errand" which I think is more apt. This is nothing new. Kids walk to kindergarten/school with their fellow neighbourhood children often in orderly lines, the older children tasked at ensuring their group gets to school safely. Grocery shopping is done daily, on foot or by bicycle often within the neighborhood. Children are encouraged to help their parents by running small errands and learning valuable lessons in safety, responsibility and money. I understand why American parents would never allow their children to do this, but our society and culture is fundamentally very different in Japan 🙂 I am sure the USA being a big country has contributed to cars, roads, things being further away and the necessity to 'stock up' on groceries is a big factor in how Japan and America differ.

[@user-ey6yn1qn3s]

Once you visit Japan, you realize the county is totally different planet.

[@jessicazarate6258]

I need more than 20 episodes 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@wilsonpaul3599]

I grew up like this in rural Arkansas America. Not so often on the errands but the freedom and distances from home are similar.

[@jcowboy123]

Very entertaining show. I enjoy watching these young ones problem solve on their errands. Great show !

[@Mupyeong]

Even in less safe areas, that's what friends and family are for. Have one or two friends supervise from a distance or inside a store, talk to a cashier you know beforehand. There are ways to do this safely even in "less safe" countries or areas. And it really helps kids gain confidence and build self reliance!

[@gabbie7265]

I'm from Ontario (Canada), where there are legal (as much as I know) guidelines for the minimum age that a child can be left alone being 16 years old, and I believe it used to be 12 years old during my childhood. But my mom was a single parent working evenings/midnights most of the time, so I would be responsible for "making" my breakfast (usually cereal) before school while she slept (she got home around 5-6am), walking myself to school or the schoolbus stop (by myself) and walking myself home after school and letting myself into our apartment at age 6-7 (and not in a city that was generally considered "safe" either). My mom had always made sure that I understood that it was illegal (technically) and if anyone should ask then I should say she just left a moment ago or that I couldn't come out of the apartment to play, etc. Looking back at it, I wouldn't want my childhood to be any other way, it feels stifling to imagine not being able to stay home alone or walk myself to school before the age of 16. Kids are smart, they know when someone's vibe feels "off", especially when you teach them instead of sheltering them from the things that scare you. Will bad things never happen? Not necessarily, but if you give them the skills and "tools" to manage and cope with those situations (teaching self-defense, stranger danger and being observant of your surroundings and strange behaviours, creating a Block Parent program in your neighbourhood or creating a network of people in the neighbourhood that they can go to if they need help or don't feel safe, etc) then they will learn, and have the room/opportunity to become independent/self-assured/confident people because they know what to do and/or that they are capable of protecting themselves or getting help if they need. The way that some North American parents infantilize their children by removing any potential for independence, growth and challenges is baffling and honestly upsetting, because it ends up being about making the parent feel comfortable more than about keeping their children safe and making sure they grow up to be a well-rounded and confident person that not only CAN but FEELS like they can handle any challenge that they face.

[@rebeccacampbell8020]

Canada is quickly becoming one big nanny state. Trudeau thinks he is your daddy, and he enjoys spanking you.

[@imsunflowerdust7127]

This is my new favorite show! Wholesome as it can get.

[@user-jh7cq3ct6u]

Will there be more seasons???? Luv this show so much

[@いぬんInun]

I am Japanese. I have been going to kindergarten and going to my mother's otsukai by myself since I was 5. Is it true that it would be abusive if I were overseas?

[@ricardoa9360]

Japanese is very different from usa culture... a lot safer

[@lizd2943]

People need to keep in mind that this is reality TV, which means it's not really real. The kids have people all around them (usually disguised as passersby) to quickly intervene if they get lost or look like they're going to step in front of a car, and they probably prompt them what to say when they get to the store.

[@karenflores4987]

My mom told me when I was six I begged her to let me buy my own candy by myself across the street. After much insisting, she finally let me and watched me nervously from our home fence as I crossed the street. Mission was accomplished and I got my candy :). I then went to do other things independently. I would say though, I wouldn't trust my child to run errands where I live. But there are other ways to teach them to be independent.

[@yourdreamhomecitychannel_PH]

Some are critical with the show but Japan is different from America. You can’t compare apples with oranges. If you live in Japan, or even just visit the country and observe the way of life there, you’ll learn a lot.

[@shurinhaha]

Not everyone is open to trying to understand things that are outside of their culture, sadly.

[@Zifengtower]

The only reason is because Japan is the safest countries in the world, not one of them, 👍👍👍, I love Japan even though I'm from China