12 Things Parents Did That Would Be Judged Today
This article lists old parenting habits that would be criticized if done today.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Parenting used to be very different, and many things parents did back then would not be acceptable now. Today, those same actions could lead to serious backlash or legal consequences. This list looks back at some parenting choices that have not aged well.
1. Smoking Around the Kids
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Many parents used to smoke at home or in the car, even with kids around. This was seen as normal back then. Today, it is known to be very harmful and is no longer accepted.
2. No Car Seats or Seat Belts
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Some kids sat in the front seat or moved freely in the car without any seat belt. Many parents did not use car seats at all. Today, that would be considered unsafe and against the law.
3. Letting Kids Roam Free
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Kids used to play outside all day without much adult supervision. As long as they came home before dark, it was fine. Today, letting children wander alone could raise concerns.
4. Leaving Kids in the Car
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Parents would sometimes leave kids in the car while running errands. It was not seen as a big deal. Today, this could be dangerous and even illegal.
5. Unlimited Screen Time
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TV was often used as a babysitter for kids. They could watch cartoons or movies for hours. Now, many parents try to limit screen time to protect their children’s development.
6. Corporal Punishment at Home
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Spanking with a belt or slipper was a common form of discipline. It was widely accepted as normal. Today, it is seen as harmful and is often discouraged.
7. No Helmets, No Problem
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Kids rode bikes or skateboards without helmets or pads, and most parents did not worry about injuries. Now, safety gear is strongly encouraged.
8. Sugar Overload at Every Meal
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Kids often ate sugary snacks, cereals, and sodas daily, and parents did not think much about sugar. Today, many families are more careful about what kids eat.
9. Public Humiliation as Discipline
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Teachers or parents would scold or embarrass kids in front of others. It was used to teach lessons. Today, this could be called emotional harm or bullying.
10. “Clean Your Plate” Pressure
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Kids were told to finish everything on their plates, and food was not allowed to be wasted. Now, parents teach kids to stop eating when they feel full.
11. Sending Sick Kids to School
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Some parents sent their kids to school even if they felt unwell. Being tough was more important than staying home. Today, health and rest come first.
12. Drinking Around the Kids
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Parents drank beer or wine around their kids at home or at parties. It was not a big issue back then. Now, people are more mindful of how drinking looks in front of children.