The late 20th century was a vastly different era. Men enjoyed their drinks, while women indulged in smoking, and processed delights like Tang and SPAM were staples of the pantry. The stay-at-home moms of today were once the devoted housewives, and they embraced that role wholeheartedly. Children were free to be children, and parents maintained the authority. I long for those simpler times—I grew up in them.
As I observe today’s parents asking children like Lily and Carter, the future leaders of society, to quiet down during morning gymnastics classes, I can’t help but cringe. I strive to keep my thoughts to myself, but when unruly kids throw toys or scream while their parents engage in casual conversation, my patience wears thin.
Sure, I might throw out a few passive-aggressive comments—like, “Wouldn’t it be great if parents could manage their children?” I realize I might be crossing a line, but honesty is essential, and someone has to voice the concern. It’s high time we address the entitlement we’ve inadvertently nurtured in our kids. My intention here isn’t to rant or lecture but to reminisce about the straightforward (and perhaps neglectful) parenting styles of the ’70s and ’80s. I can almost hear our parents whispering, “You’re doing it all wrong.” While that’s not entirely accurate, there’s a kernel of truth there. So, if I haven’t annoyed you too much, keep reading…
Play Was Uncomplicated
You know what I mean. Little Tommy from down the street would knock and ask if Sam could come out to play. There were no elaborate schedules or playdates to coordinate. Phones weren’t constantly consulted. Instead, Mom would shout for Tommy, and they would head outside to engage with sticks, rocks, and trees. Nature fueled their imaginations, a spark I worry my own kids lack in an age where everything is instantaneously provided. We’ve swapped imagination for rigid schedules, leaving little room for creativity.
Back to Tommy and Sam—when lunchtime rolled around, Mom would simply call them in, and they would return without fuss to eat whatever she had prepared. “I don’t know what to play,” my son says now, highlighting how parents have become activity directors. Kids today don’t seem to know how to be bored.
Toys Were Just Toys
While Slinkys and Shrinky Dinks still exist, they’ve largely been overshadowed by a wave of electronics. Our version of high-tech was games like Battleship or Simon. Kids would spin around until they felt nauseous, but such toys had their charm. And don’t even get me started on the Lite-Brite, which was tempting yet frustrating. I could never create the masterpieces shown in commercials; my creations were always a bit… boxy.
Now, we’re surrounded by iPads, Kindles, laptops, and game consoles, constantly upgrading to the next shiny gadget. As children unwrap the latest tech at birthdays and holidays, parents understand that joy is fleeting; a newer model will be out soon, often at a higher price. We feel pressured to keep up, and I’m just as guilty of this as anyone else.
Cartoons Were a Saturday Tradition
Saturday mornings were sacred. Mom would stock up on sugary cereals, and that was the one day we could enjoy them guilt-free. My grandmother would only buy cereal if sugar was the third or fourth ingredient. On Saturdays, we could indulge in sweet treats while watching cartoons until lunch. Nowadays, cartoons are available 24/7. When my daughter fell ill, I had a plethora of shows to choose from at 2 a.m. on a Tuesday. Back then, we had to wait for Saturday morning to arrive, and we watched what our parents watched—if we were lucky enough to have that privilege.
Kids Followed Their Parents’ Lead
Options were scarce. If our parents decided on a beach trip, we climbed into the car without question, ready for a day of fun under the sun—often without sunscreen, leading to bright red skin. We believed we had a great time simply because our parents said so. Their catchphrases were different—“I’ll give you something to cry about” was a common one, compared to today’s “No dessert tonight.”
Food Wasn’t Organic
Food was simpler and perhaps less scrutinized back then. SPAM and Fluffernutters were staples, and kids rarely had allergies. Nowadays, EpiPens and hand sanitizers are essential items. Meals were straightforward, and when we sat down to eat, it was expected that we finished everything on our plates—no exceptions. Manners were instilled with a firm “please” and “thank you.”
Pets Were Just Pets
Dogs were simply dogs with classic names like Max and Buddy. They weren’t dressed up or given therapist appointments; they were allowed to be themselves. Similarly, children were allowed to be children, without the need to schedule playdates or pamper them excessively. I refuse to schedule playdates for my dog; she should enjoy her walks and sticks without any fuss.
Yes, I admit to being a hypocrite, as I’ve fallen into many of the traps I’ve described. But aren’t we all a little guilty? I hope to find a balance between the carefree parenting of the past and the overly involved style of today. Parenting is challenging, and we’re all just trying to navigate it—no matter the decade. For those considering home insemination, check out this resource for more information. You can also learn more about managing your parenting journey at this site, which offers expert insights. For additional resources, visit this center that can assist you further.
Summary
Parenting in the ’80s was characterized by simplicity, spontaneity, and a sense of adventure. Children played outdoors without the constraints of scheduled activities, toys were straightforward, and Saturday mornings were dedicated to cartoons and sugary cereals. Kids followed their parents’ lead without question, and family meals were about togetherness and manners. Pets were treated as pets, not fashion statements. Today, many parents find themselves navigating a more complicated landscape filled with technology and heightened expectations.