Parenting Then vs. Now: Things Parents Used to Do That You Don’t See Anymore
Times have changed, and so have parenting styles. From how parents spent their time with kids to their rules and routines, here’s a look at some things parents did “back in the day” that seem outdated today.
Free-Range Childhoods
Decades ago, kids were allowed to roam the neighborhood with little supervision. Parents trusted that their children would find their way home by dinner.
One Phone for the Whole Family
Before cell phones, families shared a single landline. Children had to take turns and remember phone manners, like politely asking, “May I speak with…?”
Riding Without Car Seats
Car seats weren't mandatory for kids in the past. Parents often held babies on their laps, and older kids would sit in the back without seatbelts.
Saturday Morning Cartoons Without Limits
Before streaming and parental controls, kids watched hours of TV without much worry. Parents weren’t as concerned about screen time or content ratings.
Spanking as Common Discipline
Spanking was once a widely accepted form of discipline. Now, many parents opt for different methods, like timeouts or positive reinforcement.
Riding in the Bed of Pickup Trucks
In the past, it wasn’t unusual to see kids riding in the open back of a pickup truck, especially on road trips. Safety laws have since changed.
Receiving Parenting Advice from Everyone
It used to be common for strangers to offer unsolicited advice on parenting in public places. Today, people are more reserved about giving opinions on how to raise kids.
Homemade Lunches with No Fuss
Parents would often pack simple, homemade school lunches for their kids without worrying about nutrition labels or allergies. Today, there’s a lot more focus on health and food restrictions.
Sunburns Were a Summer Rite of Passage
Before we knew the dangers of UV rays, sunscreen wasn’t always top of mind. Kids often spent long days outdoors, returning home with sunburns.
Parents Smoked Around Kids
Smoking was far more common in households, even with kids around. Now, we know the dangers of second-hand smoke, and it’s largely avoided.
Bedtimes Were Flexible
Strict bedtimes were less of a focus in some households. Many parents allowed kids to stay up late, especially on weekends or during the summer.
Exercise Was Just Playing Outside
Before the rise of organized sports and fitness classes, kids got their exercise by simply playing outside. There was less pressure for formal exercise.
Walking to School Without Supervision
Back in the day, many children walked or biked to school by themselves or with friends. Today, most parents drive their kids or ensure they're in a supervised carpool.
Parenting: The Ever-Changing Journey
Parenting styles have evolved over the years to adapt to modern concerns and knowledge. Though much has changed, the goal remains the same: raising happy, healthy children in the best way possible.
