15 Crazy Things Gen X Kids Did That Gen Z Can’t Even Imagine
Growing up in the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s was a unique experience for Generation X, filled with adventures, struggles, and a sense of freedom that many Gen Z kids can hardly comprehend. While today’s youth enjoy digital conveniences and constant connectivity, Gen X had to navigate a world that often felt much less forgiving.
From their innovative playtime to the absence of social media, here are 15 things Gen X kids did growing up that might just make Gen Z shed a tear.
Riding Bikes Without Helmets
Gen X kids rode their bikes with wind in their hair and no helmets in sight. The thrill of the open road, feeling the freedom of the ride, was a rite of passage.
Today, the mere thought of riding without safety gear would send Gen Z into a panic.
Playing Outside Until Dark
Gen X was the last generation to truly embrace outdoor play. They spent hours running around, climbing trees, and exploring neighborhoods without a care.
For Gen Z, the idea of unmonitored outdoor play is a foreign concept.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Using Payphones
Before smartphones, Gen X relied on payphones for communication. Finding a payphone, fumbling for change, and calling home was an adventure in itself.
Gen Z, accustomed to instant connectivity, might find this practice both hilarious and sad.
Watching Saturday Morning Cartoons
Waking up early on Saturday mornings to watch cartoons was a cherished ritual for Gen X. They didn’t have streaming services; they had to wait all week for their favorites.
Gen Z’s on-demand viewing may leave them wondering what the hype was about.
Playing Outside Until Dusk
Gen X often spent summer evenings playing outside until the sun went down. No parents hovering, just friends and imagination.
In contrast, Gen Z might struggle with the idea of unchaperoned freedom in today's overly cautious world.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Trading CDs and Tapes
Making mixtapes and trading CDs was a personal touch to friendship. Hours spent creating the perfect playlist were filled with love and dedication.
Gen Z, used to streaming and playlists, might find this form of expression archaic.
Having a Landline Phone
Gen X kids knew the struggle of answering a landline phone, often dealing with awkward conversations or telemarketers. The thrill of getting a call was palpable.
For Gen Z, landlines are nearly extinct and would seem like a relic from the past.
Experiencing the “Blockbuster Night”
Renting movies from Blockbuster was a cherished weekend tradition for Gen X families. They browsed shelves and picked films for family movie night.
Gen Z’s access to endless streaming options would make the concept of Blockbuster feel bizarre.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Writing Letters by Hand
Gen X kids communicated through handwritten letters and postcards, pouring their hearts onto paper. The excitement of receiving a letter in the mail was unmatched.
In a world of instant messaging, Gen Z might find this practice both quaint and time-consuming.
Wearing Hand-Me-Downs
Many Gen X kids wore hand-me-down clothes from older siblings or relatives, embracing the uniqueness of pre-loved fashion. For Gen Z, the idea of thrift shopping may be trendy, but they often prefer brand-new items over secondhand treasures.
Waiting for the Internet to Connect
Gen X grew up with dial-up internet, enduring the agonizing wait for connections. The sound of a dial-up modem was a part of their lives.
Gen Z, with their high-speed internet, would struggle to fathom this level of frustration.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Participating in After-School Activities Alone
Gen X kids often went to after-school activities without parental supervision. They learned to navigate their social lives independently.
Gen Z, often coddled by over-involved parents, might find this lack of guidance unsettling.
Going to the Mall with Friends
Hanging out at the mall was a quintessential Gen X experience. It was where friendships blossomed and trends were born.
For Gen Z, with online shopping dominating, the mall has become less relevant, making this tradition feel like a lost art.
Creating Scrapbooks
Gen X cherished the art of scrapbooking, preserving memories with physical photos and decorative materials. This creative outlet allowed for personal storytelling.
Gen Z may lean towards digital photos but might miss the tactile joy of scrapbooking.
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
Living Without Social Media
Gen X grew up without the constant pressure of social media. They formed real-life connections and shared experiences face-to-face.
For Gen Z, who are often glued to their screens, the idea of living without social media might seem unimaginable and isolating.
More from IEPMommy
- Younger Workers Refuse to Follow These 15 Outdated Office Rules
- 16 Reasons Employers Don’t Want to Hire Gen X Candidates Anymore
- The Harsh Realities Boomers Lived That Millennials Didn’t Have to Face
- These 21 Job Skills Are Now Completely Useless in Today’s Workforce
- 19 Old-Fashioned Beliefs That Boomers Cling to but Are Harmful Today
Like iepmommy's content? Follow us on MSN.
