11 Things Kids Could Do Alone in the ’80s That Are Unthinkable Now
Kids in the 1980s experienced a level of independence and adventure that would raise eyebrows today.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
The 1980s were a time when children enjoyed a level of freedom and independence that seems almost unimaginable today. This listicle revisits activities that were commonplace for kids in the ’80s but are now considered unthinkable due to modern safety concerns and societal changes. Join us as we journey back to a time of latchkey kids and unchaperoned adventures.
1. Walking to the Store Alone
Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels
In the ’80s, it was common for kids as young as eight to walk to the local store alone, clutching a crumpled dollar bill to buy candy or run errands for their parents. This solo adventure was a rite of passage, fostering independence and responsibility. Today, such an activity would likely be met with concern over child safety and supervision.
2. Riding Bikes Without Helmets
RDNE Stock project on Pexels
Back then, kids would hop on their bikes and cruise the neighborhood without a helmet in sight. The wind in their hair and the thrill of speed were all that mattered. Nowadays, helmet laws and heightened safety awareness make this a rare sight.
3. Playing Outside Until Dark
Rene Terp on Pexels
Children in the ’80s often played outside from after school until the streetlights came on, engaging in games like tag, hide-and-seek, and bike riding without parental supervision. This freedom allowed children to explore their neighborhoods and develop social skills through unstructured play.
4. Using Public Payphones
Thắng Văn on Pexels
In the ’80s, public payphones were an essential part of communication for kids who were out and about. Whether it was to call home or to meet up with friends, payphones were everywhere. Kids learned how to use them — finding a quarter, dialing the number, and waiting for a connection.
5. Attending Concerts Alone
EddieBerman on Wikimedia Commons
In the ’80s, it wasn’t uncommon for kids to attend concerts without adult supervision, enjoying live music, as children could explore their tastes freely.
6. Climbing Trees Without Supervision
Ubaid Shareef on Pexels
Think back to your childhood. You probably spent hours climbing trees without a second thought. This activity allowed you to explore, take risks, and build confidence.
7. Drinking from Garden Hoses
Emma Bauso on Pexels
Hydration on the go came from the nearest garden hose, sun-warmed rubber taste and all. Concerns about chemicals or contaminants simply weren’t part of the conversation. Bottled and filtered water has replaced that carefree gulp.
8. Making Prank Calls
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Prank calling was a popular pastime for kids in the ’80s, often involving harmless jokes and funny voices. Children would use landlines to call friends or even strangers, creating laughter and memorable moments.
9. Recording Songs from the Radio
Vika Glitter on Pexels
If you wanted a song, you couldn’t just download or stream it; you had to wait for it to play on the radio and record it onto a cassette. Timing was everything, and DJs talking over the intro could ruin the whole thing?
10. Building Forts with Household
Liliana Drew on Pexels
Building forts was an adventure in creativity and resourcefulness. Kids would gather materials like blankets, pillows, and chairs, transforming living rooms or backyards into imaginative hideaways.
11. Playing Arcade Games Alone
Katia Miasoed on Pexels
Arcades were the social hubs of the ’80s, where kids gathered to play the latest video games. From Pac-Man to Space Invaders, these games offered excitement and competition.