Recently, I borrowed the complete DVD collection of Season 1 of the classic series Little House on the Prairie from a friend. My intention was to share the charm of prairie life with my kids, offering them a glimpse into a slower, simpler way of living. In a world filled with fast-paced, often sarcastic shows, I believed this wholesome series would be a refreshing change.
However, my husband, who had never watched it before, had a different perspective. He focused on the grueling realities of frontier life—the physical toll and stress of survival—which seemed to overshadow the joy of it all. His observations included the relentless labor the men endured (though he conveniently overlooked the dangers of childbirth).
Setting aside gender roles, Little House on the Prairie serves as an invaluable history lesson for children. My 9-year-old had read some of the books but was still intrigued by Laura Ingalls’ life. The questions poured in: How did Ma bake bread in just a fireplace? Why was there a teenager in a class with little kids? Did the doctor really visit them?
These inquiries led to discussions about our own childhoods. While we didn’t face blizzards or have to use a rotary phone, we grew up without the conveniences of modern technology. Watching Little House on the Prairie transported me back to my youth, reminding me of the simplicity we often overlook in our hectic lives. Here are a few lessons we can learn from the Ingalls family:
1. Embrace Screen-Free Family Time
Remember, kids, when we designate a “family night” or a day without screens (yes, that includes TVs), you might not see “Ma” knitting by gas light or “Pa” playing the fiddle, but you also won’t find us glued to our devices. Instead, you can enjoy conversations, read, play games, or simply unwind before heading off to bed!
2. Chores vs. Family Responsibilities
Setting the table, feeding pets, and tidying your room are not merely ‘chores.’ They are family responsibilities. Chores, as you might understand them, are what you do after a long trek home from school—like scrubbing laundry by hand or milking a cow on a frosty morning. Appreciate the distinction!
3. Value Your Health and Care
It’s easy to take our health for granted, yet a little perspective helps. Just watch Doc Baker as he prepares to extract Laura’s tooth with nothing more than chloroform and pliers. It offers a stark reminder of our modern medical conveniences.
4. Everyone Needs a ‘Mr. Edwards’
This is that trusted family friend who will be there for you unconditionally, whether it’s taking your kids for a joyride or searching for them when they’ve wandered off. Mr. Edwards is the kind of friend you can rely on, no questions asked.
5. Food Comes from the Earth
Food doesn’t magically appear on shelves; it originates from the ground. It has always been this way. From planting seeds to harvesting, real food requires effort. Thankfully, we have much better tools than those used by the Ingalls family.
6. Cherish Your Teacher
In the world of frontier education, your teacher is your only educator throughout your school years. Appreciate “Miss Beadle” and let her know how much she means to you—because you never know when she might pass her wisdom down to you.
7. Find Joy in Solitude and Sibling Time
Spending time alone at the creek or with your siblings can be fulfilling. While a wagon ride may seem more exciting, quiet moments can be refreshing and restorative.
8. There Will Always Be a Nellie Oleson
Every life has a “Nellie”—the classmate with the fanciest clothes and the best treats. But remember, you have so much more: a loving family and perhaps a few wild animal friends.
The simplicity of prairie life is a reminder of what really matters. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to reconnect with those fundamental values.
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In summary, Little House on the Prairie teaches us timeless lessons about family, responsibility, and the importance of simplicity in our lives.