9 Things Parents Did In The 50s & 60s That They Could Never Do Today
source: Alamy.com
The 1950s and 1960s were vastly different from the world we know today. Culture, technology, and social norms have changed significantly over the years. Parenting in those days was also quite different. Here are ten things parents did in the 50s and 60s that they could never do today.
Leave Kids Unattended in a Car: Back in the day, it was common for parents to leave their children in the car while they ran errands. They would leave the windows rolled down and the car unlocked, so the kids could breathe and get out if they needed to. Nowadays, it is illegal and dangerous to leave a child unattended in a car.
Spanking: Discipline techniques have changed over the years, and spanking was once a common practice. However, in today’s world, spanking is considered child abuse, and parents can face legal action for using physical punishment to discipline their children.
Smoking Around Kids: Cigarette smoking was widespread in the 50s and 60s, and parents smoked around their children without much thought. Nowadays, smoking around children is considered dangerous and can lead to serious health problems like asthma and lung cancer.
No Car Seats or Seat Belts: Cars in the 50s and 60s didn’t have seat belts or car seats, and parents simply held their children in their laps. Today, car seats and seat belts are mandatory for children, and parents can face legal action for not using them.
Letting Kids Play Outside Alone: Parents in the 50s and 60s would let their children play outside alone, often for hours at a time. Nowadays, parents are more protective of their children and watch them closely, and let them play outside alone for an extended period can be considered negligent.
Letting Kids Walk to School Alone: Walking to school was a common practice back in the day, and parents didn’t worry too much about their children’s safety. However, in today’s world, parents are more cautious and often accompany their children to and from school.
Not Wearing Helmets: In the 50s and 60s, kids rode their bikes and skateboards without helmets, and parents didn’t think twice about it. Today, helmets are mandatory for children riding bikes or participating in other sports that involve the risk of head injury.
No Sunscreen: Sunscreen was not commonly used in the 50s and 60s, and parents didn’t realize the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays. Nowadays, parents apply sunscreen to their children religiously and ensure they wear hats and protective clothing to prevent sunburn and skin damage.
No Cell Phones or GPS Trackers: In the 50s and 60s, there were no cell phones or GPS trackers, and parents didn’t know where their children were at all times. Today, parents use technology to keep track of their children and ensure their safety.
Parenting in the 50s and 60s was vastly different from today. Many practices that were once considered acceptable are now considered dangerous or even illegal. Parenting has evolved to become more safety-focused, and parents today are more protective of their children than ever before.