17 Outdated Parenting Habits from Boomers That Would Shock Modern Families
Parenting has evolved significantly over the years, with the baby boomer generation raising their children in ways that seem foreign to today’s parents. While many of their methods were rooted in the values of their time, today's families would likely be shocked to learn how differently things were done.
From discipline techniques to household rules, these practices were once considered normal, but now they might raise eyebrows. Let's take a look at 17 things boomers did as parents that would likely astonish families today.
Strict Bedtimes for Kids
Boomer parents enforced strict bedtimes, often without exceptions.For boomers, a set bedtime was a non-negotiable rule.
Whether it was 7 or 8 p.m., kids knew it was time to wind down, and there were few allowances. Parents enforced this routine not only to ensure rest but to maintain structure and discipline.
Today’s parents, however, are more likely to allow their children to have flexible bedtime schedules, often prioritizing their child’s needs or preferences.
No Participation in Parent-Teacher Conferences
Boomer parents rarely attended school events or parent-teacher conferences. While today's parents are highly involved in their children's education, boomers typically kept a hands-off approach when it came to school affairs.
Parent-teacher conferences, open houses, and volunteer opportunities were far less common. Parents often trusted the school system to handle their children’s education and didn't feel the need to be deeply involved, which contrasts sharply with the hyper-involved, hands-on approach of many parents today.
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Minimal Communication About Feelings
Emotions were rarely discussed, and mental health was not prioritized. For boomers, emotional discussions were usually avoided, especially in front of children.
Feelings like sadness or anxiety weren’t typically addressed openly. It was expected that children would “tough it out” rather than express or explore their emotions.
Modern parents, however, are more likely to talk openly about emotions, making mental health and emotional well-being a priority for their children.
No Technology Limits
Boomers didn’t monitor screen time or set limits on tech use. Technology was far less advanced during the boomer years, but the concept of limiting screen time didn’t exist.
Parents were not worried about the amount of TV their kids watched, and many kids spent hours in front of the screen without restriction. Today, with the rise of smartphones and social media, parents tend to be far more cautious and establish firm limits on screen time and tech usage.
Sending Kids Outside to Play Alone
Boomer parents had no problem letting their kids roam the neighborhood. Boomer parents were often less worried about their children’s safety and more focused on fostering independence.
They would send their kids outside to play unsupervised, trusting that they would be safe and manage on their own. Today, however, many parents are more cautious, opting for supervised playdates or structured activities due to concerns over safety.
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Expecting Kids to Work Around the House
Chores were expected from a very young age, often without pay. Boomers often expected their kids to pitch in around the house without receiving any payment or rewards.
Chores were seen as part of being a responsible family member, and everyone was expected to contribute. Modern parents, in contrast, may still assign chores but often offer rewards or structure tasks in a way that is more flexible, and kids are sometimes paid for their work.
Spanking Was a Common Discipline Method
Boomer parents commonly used spanking to discipline their children. Spanking was considered an acceptable form of discipline for many boomer parents.
It was believed to be an effective way to instill respect and deter bad behavior. Today, however, physical punishment is largely discouraged, with experts advocating for positive discipline techniques and an emphasis on communication rather than physical punishment.
Kids Had to Earn Their “Fun” Time
Entertainment or leisure time was earned through work or good behavior. In boomer households, “fun” activities like watching TV or going out were often seen as privileges that had to be earned.
Kids were expected to complete their chores or meet certain behavioral expectations before being allowed to enjoy leisure time. Today’s parents may encourage their children to take breaks or have unstructured playtime without tying it to performance or work.
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Minimal Praise or Affection
Boomers didn’t always express love or offer constant praise. Unlike the parents of today who often shower their children with words of affirmation and praise, boomer parents typically kept emotions and affection in check.
Many boomer kids didn’t hear “I love you” as frequently, and there was less emphasis on positive reinforcement. Today's parenting is often centered around emotional connection and encouragement, with constant praise for both effort and achievements.
Little Attention to Gender Roles
Gender-specific roles were often applied, with less flexibility in expectations. Boomers were raised in an era when traditional gender roles were the norm.
Parents often had clear expectations about what was appropriate for boys versus girls, from the chores they did to the careers they pursued. Today’s parents are more likely to encourage their children to explore any interest without the restrictions of traditional gender expectations.
Parents Didn’t Over-Manage Social Lives
Kids had to figure out their own social arrangements without much parental interference.
Boomer parents weren’t as focused on organizing their children’s social lives.
Playdates and extracurricular activities weren’t as common, and kids were often expected to make friends and plan their own activities. Today’s parents, however, often schedule playdates, coordinate group activities, and ensure their kids are socially engaged at all times.
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Parents Didn’t “Helicopter” Over Their Kids
Boomers gave their children more space to navigate life on their own. “Helicopter parenting” wasn’t a term that boomers were familiar with, as they were far less likely to hover over their children’s every move.
They trusted that their kids would figure things out on their own, from school projects to social issues. Today, many parents are more hands-on, often intervening in their children’s lives more frequently, from checking grades to managing friendships.
Children Were Expected to Respect Authority Without Question
Respecting authority figures was non-negotiable. Boomer children were expected to show unquestioning respect for adults, teachers, and authority figures. Disrespect wasn’t tolerated, and parents often reinforced this strict adherence to authority.
Today, parents tend to encourage their children to question authority and think critically, fostering an environment where children feel comfortable expressing their opinions, even if they challenge the status quo.
Rigid Family Dinners with No Distractions
Family dinners were sacred and often without distractions. For boomers, dinner time was family time, and it was rare to see anyone eating while distracted by technology.
Family members gathered around the table, had conversations, and ate together without phones, TV, or other distractions. Today, family dinners often involve a mix of distractions, with phones and devices present at the table.
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Sending Kids on Solo Trips
Boomer parents often allowed their kids to go on solo trips or travel unaccompanied.
Many boomer parents sent their children on solo trips, whether it was to visit relatives or go on school excursions.
This trust in children’s independence is much rarer today due to heightened concerns over safety and security. Parents today are more likely to accompany or carefully monitor their children’s travels.
Letting Kids Make Their Own Decisions
Boomers gave their children more independence when making decisions. Parents in the boomer generation often encouraged their kids to make decisions, even if the consequences were tough.
Whether it was choosing their own clothes, managing their own allowance, or deciding how to spend their time, boomers gave their children more autonomy. Today’s parents tend to be more involved in guiding their children's decisions, sometimes overstepping boundaries.
No Concept of “Screen Time” Limits
Boomer parents didn’t worry about limiting TV or game time. TV was a primary form of entertainment for boomers, and they didn’t monitor the amount of time their children spent watching it.
There were no worries about “screen time” or its impact on development. Today, however, limiting screen time is a critical component of parenting, with many parents enforcing strict rules on how long children can spend on screens.
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