17 Things Parents Used to Do That Would Be Unacceptable Today
These 17 things were common in past parenting but would likely be seen as unacceptable by today’s standards.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Parenting norms have changed a lot over the years. Many actions that were once normal are now considered unsafe, harmful, or socially unacceptable. These 17 examples show how different parenting looked just a generation or two ago.
1. Smoking Around Children
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Many parents smoked in the house, in cars, and even while holding their children. Secondhand smoke was not widely understood as harmful. Kids often sat in smoke-filled rooms without question. Today, this is considered a major health risk.
2. Leaving Kids in the Car
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Parents often left children in the car while running errands. Some even left them with the windows rolled up. It was seen as convenient rather than dangerous. Now, this is illegal in many places and viewed as serious neglect.
3. Physical Punishment in Public
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It was common to see parents spank or hit their kids in stores, schools, or restaurants. This was often accepted as a way to “discipline” children. Few people stepped in or reported it. Today, physical punishment is strongly discouraged and even banned in some countries.
4. No Seat Belts or Car Seats
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Children often rode in the front seat or even on someone’s lap. Many cars had no seat belts, and car seats were rare or poorly made. Safety rules were not taken seriously. Modern laws now require child safety seats and proper restraints.
5. Letting Kids Roam Without Supervision
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Kids played outside for hours without checking in or carrying phones. Parents often had no idea where their children were. This was considered normal and even healthy. Now, many would see this as risky or neglectful.
6. Ignoring Mental Health
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If a child showed signs of anxiety, sadness, or fear, it was often brushed off. Parents told kids to “toughen up” or “stop crying.” There was little understanding of children’s mental health. Today, emotional well-being is considered an important part of parenting.
7. Making Jokes About Weight
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Some parents made comments about their children’s size or eating habits. These comments were often framed as “helpful” or “motivating.” Many kids were embarrassed or hurt by them. Now, this is recognized as harmful to self-esteem and body image.
8. Giving Kids Alcohol “Just a Sip”
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Parents sometimes let children try alcohol at parties or family gatherings. It was seen as harmless or even funny. Some believed it would make kids less curious later. Today, giving minors alcohol is illegal and discouraged.
9. Yelling at Kids in Public
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Raising voices or screaming at children in public places was common. Many saw it as part of being a strict parent. Passersby usually ignored it. Now, it often draws attention or concern from others.
10. Comparing Kids to Others
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Parents would often compare their children to neighbors, cousins, or classmates. It was meant to encourage improvement. Many kids felt pressured or insecure. Modern parenting places a greater emphasis on individual development.
11. Letting Kids Ride in the Open Bed of a Truck
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It wasn’t unusual to see kids riding in the back of a pickup truck, even on highways. It was seen as fun and practical. No one questioned its safety. Today, it’s illegal in many places due to serious injury risks.
12. Making Kids Finish Everything on Their Plate
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Parents often forced children to eat all the food they were served. The idea was that wasting food was wrong. This sometimes led to discomfort or unhealthy eating habits. Now, many experts recommend teaching kids to listen to their hunger cues.
13. Not Talking About “Adult” Topics
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Parents often avoided discussions about sex, consent, or emotions. Kids were expected to learn from school or experience. This left many confused or misinformed. Today, open communication is seen as essential for safety and growth.
14. Watching Violent or Mature TV Together
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Children often sat through violent movies or shows with little restriction. Some parents didn’t check ratings or content. It was considered fine as long as the child was quiet. Now, screen content is more closely monitored for age appropriateness.
15. Using Scare Tactics
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Parents sometimes used fear to control behavior, like saying the police would come if the child didn’t behave. These tactics were meant to scare kids into obedience. They created anxiety and confusion instead. Modern parenting tends to avoid using fear as a tool.
16. Making Older Siblings Babysit Full Time
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Teens or even pre-teens were expected to watch younger siblings for hours or entire days. This was often unpaid and without choice. It placed a lot of pressure on young people. Today, it’s seen as unfair and often unsafe without proper support.
17. Not Apologizing to Children
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Parents rarely admitted they were wrong or apologized to their kids. Authority was viewed as something that shouldn’t be questioned. Many children felt dismissed or misunderstood. Today, healthy relationships include mutual respect and accountability.