Our parents (or even grandparents) in the ’60s lived in an entirely different world. A lot of what they did back then was considered “normal” at the time, but in today’s world? People would be appalled, confused, or just plain horrified at the thought. From parenting styles to safety habits, so many things from that era just wouldn’t fly now. Let’s take a stroll down memory lane and talk about some of the things our parents used to do in the ’60s that would raise eyebrows today.
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Allowing children to play outside all day
In the 1960s, parents would say, “Go outside and play until dinner!” and that was that. Today, people would panic if kids were out of sight that long without a phone.
Drinking from the garden hose
Kids used to just drink straight from the hose on a hot day without thinking twice. Now people worry about chemicals and hand over a water bottle instead.
Driving with no seat belts or car seats
Kids rode on laps, in the front seat, or even while standing in the back of a moving car. Fast forward to today, and you’d be pulled over by the police.
Spanking being the normal form of discipline
Spanking was often seen as “just part of parenting” back then. Today, it’s more controversial, and there are gentler ways to discipline children.
Sunbathing with no sunscreen
People would lie out in the sun, slathered in baby oil to get a burn, thinking it would turn into a “nice tan.” Now we know that it’s a cancer risk.
Driving after only a couple of drinks
“It’s not a problem, I’ve only had a couple of drinks” was common back then. People drink and drive far less today, and the laws are much stricter, plus the social stigma is huge.
Making children stay silent “because the adults are talking”
Children were expected to be quiet and not interrupt “grown-up conversations.” These days, people love hearing children’s voices and opinions.
Telling daughters that finding a husband is their main goal
Girls were often told that their job in life was to marry a good man. These days, people encourage daughters to follow careers, passions, or simply be independent.
Having ashtrays everywhere, including at home
Ashtrays were on the coffee table, in the kitchen, and in the car. Smoking was part of people’s daily lives. These days, the majority of homes are smoke-free.
Leaving young children alone in the car while running errands
Parents would run into a store while leaving their kids to wait for them in the car. Today, this is a safety (and legal) concern.
Being dismissive or unsupportive of mental health struggles
If you were going through a rough patch in the ’60s, you were often told to toughen up or “just keep it to yourself.” There’s so much more mental health awareness and acceptance these days.
Telling casual sexist or racist jokes around children
Things people laughed at in the ’60s would absolutely not be okay today. What was once brushed off as “just a joke” is now rightly called out as offensive and harmful.
Teachers and schools using corporal punishment
Teachers would often spank kids with rulers or paddles for misbehaving. Fast forward to today, and there would be lawsuits and headlines.
Allowing children to ride their bikes with no helmets
Kids would ride bikes with no helmets, knee pads, or protection whatsoever. These days, there are so many safety precautions.
Feeding babies all sorts of questionable things
Parents gave babies soda and whiskey, put whiskey on gums for teething, or introduced solids far too early. Pediatricians would definitely not approve these days.
Hitchhiking As Teenagers
Putting your thumb out for a stranger to pick you up was normal for teens back then. Today, this would be considered way too dangerous.
Throwing trash out of car windows
Littering was surprisingly common back then. People didn’t think twice about throwing items out onto the road. We’re much more eco-friendly these days (thankfully).
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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