17 Parenting Techniques from the Past That Are Now Frowned Upon
This list looks at 17 parenting methods that were once considered normal but are no longer encouraged today.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
Parenting has changed a lot over the years. This list highlights old techniques that used to be common but would raise eyebrows today. Some were strict, others were just outdated, and a few might even surprise you. It is a mix of discipline, habits, and beliefs that have mostly been left behind.
1. Letting Kids Roam Freely
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Kids used to leave the house in the morning and not come back until dinner. Parents trusted the neighborhood and expected kids to figure things out on their own. Today, that level of freedom is almost unthinkable.
2. Dinner Was Not Optional
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Every night, the whole family sat down and ate together. It was part of the daily routine, no matter what. Missing dinner was just not allowed.
3. Chores Started Early
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Children were expected to help around the house from a young age. Tasks like sweeping, folding laundry, or feeding pets were part of growing up. It was seen as a way to build responsibility.
4. “Because I Said So” Was Enough
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Parents did not always explain their rules. Saying, “because I said so,” was considered a valid reason. Kids were expected to listen without talking back.
5. Boredom Was Not a Problem
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Parents did not feel the need to keep kids entertained every minute. Boredom was seen as a chance to be creative. Kids had to come up with their own fun.
6. Parents Took Grown-Up Time Seriously
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Mom and Dad had date nights and adult-only time, and they did not feel guilty about it. They believed taking a break made them better parents, not selfish ones. It was normal to set boundaries between kid time and adult time.
7. Losing Privileges Was a Lesson
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Parents often used consequences like taking away TV privileges or a favorite toy. It was not about punishment — it was about teaching responsibility. Losing something you enjoyed made the lesson stick.
8. Manners Mattered
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Saying “please” and “thank you” was expected, not encouraged. Parents corrected kids on the spot if they forgot. Politeness was seen as the foundation of respect and good character.
9. No Tolerance for Rudeness
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Disrespect was not tolerated, and kids were expected to listen without interrupting or talking back. Parents taught this early and reinforced it often. In return, adults modeled respectful behavior, too.
10. Letting Kids Fail
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If a child forgot their science project, parents did not rush to fix it. They let the mistake play out so the lesson would stick. Facing the outcome helped build accountability and resilience.
11. Bedtime Was Routine
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Sleep schedules were strict, and bedtime routines were followed every night. Parents believed a well-rested child meant fewer meltdowns and smoother days. If one kid was overtired, the whole household felt it.
12. No Short-Order Cooking
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Dinner was the same for everyone, and there were no backup options. Children were expected to eat what was on their plates without complaint. It taught flexibility and reduced mealtime battles.
13. Mixed Signals on Affection
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Some parents believed that too much cuddling might spoil a child. Love was shown, but often in controlled doses to build independence. The focus was on balance, not constant emotional reassurance.
14. Too Much Comfort Was Discouraged
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Many parents thought that constantly picking up or comforting a child would make them demanding. Letting kids cry it out or calm down alone was seen as strength-building. Hands-off discipline was praised as the smarter choice.
15. Baking Matters
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Parents used kitchen time to teach real-life skills like measuring, timing, and patience. Kids felt included and learned by doing, not just watching. It was quality time that built confidence and connection.
16. Family Stories Were a Tradition
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Parents passed down stories about their own childhoods and grandparents. These moments helped kids feel connected to their history and where they came from. It was a tradition that taught values without needing a screen.
17. Simple Celebrations
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A birthday meant cake at home, a few decorations, and family gathered around. There were no over-the-top parties or rented venues. The focus was on making memories, not spending money.