13 Childhood Myths That Turned Out to Be False And 5 That Are Shockingly True

Ah, childhood myths—the magical, ridiculous, and oddly convincing stories that shaped our early years!

With wide-eyed wonder, we believed that swallowed gum would set up camp in our stomachs for seven years, that cracking our knuckles would doom us to arthritis, and that eating carrots at night would give us superhero-level night vision.

These little fabrications, passed down like sacred knowledge, filled our young minds with both awe and terror.

But here’s the fun part: while some of these myths were completely bonkers, others had a surprising kernel of truth hidden within them.

So, what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what’s just your parents’ clever way of keeping you from turning into a sugar-fueled tornado? Let’s dive into 18 childhood myths—some debunked, some confirmed, and all guaranteed to spark a little nostalgia, a few laughs, and maybe even a newfound respect for your parents’ storytelling skills.

1. Swallowed Gum Takes 7 Years to Digest

Remember being told that swallowed gum would take seven years to digest? Fret not, your intestines aren’t a sticky mess!

While your body can’t break down the gum base, it passes through your system like any other food in just a few days. It’s not building a chewing gum colony in your stomach! However, it’s always a good idea to avoid swallowing gum as a habit—just because it won’t camp in your digestive tract doesn’t mean it’s a free pass.

Next time you accidentally swallow a piece, relax, your body has it all under control. So, indulge in your favorite chewables sans worry, but do try to keep the bubble-blowing fun above the neck!

2. Cracking Your Knuckles Causes Arthritis

Ah, the satisfying sound of cracking knuckles—the bane of many parents and partners. Despite popular belief, this habit won’t lead you down Arthritis Avenue.

Studies reveal that knuckle cracking merely releases gas bubbles in the joints, creating that notorious sound. While it might annoy those around you, it isn’t causing harm to your joints. However, cracking your knuckles isn’t entirely consequence-free; some studies suggest it might weaken your grip over time.

But arthritis? Not a chance. So, next time someone gives you the stink eye for a bit of knuckle music, assure them it’s just a harmless habit, not a one-way ticket to joint pain city.

3. If You Cross Your Eyes, They’ll Get Stuck That Way

Crossing your eyes often earned a stern warning that they’d stay that way forever. Thankfully, this myth is all smoke and mirrors.

Your eyes will happily return to their default position once you stop contorting them. The muscles around your eyes are extraordinarily flexible, allowing for all sorts of fun expressions, without the risk of permanent cross-eyedness.

Granted, sustained eye-crossing could cause temporary discomfort, but nothing a quick blink can’t fix. So go ahead, make those silly faces and freaky stares, knowing full well your eyes won’t betray you permanently. Just maybe not during family photos!

4. Chocolate Causes Acne

Chocolate lovers, rejoice! Your sweet indulgence isn’t the culprit behind those pesky pimples.

The myth linking chocolate to acne has been debunked, with research pointing fingers at hormones and genetics instead. Blame puberty, not that chocolate bar, for breakouts. While it’s true that a diet high in sugar and fat can exacerbate skin issues, chocolate itself isn’t the direct antagonist.

Moderation is key, of course, but feel free to enjoy your cocoa treats without fear of waking up to a surprise on your forehead. So next time you crave that chocolatey delight, indulge with a clear conscience and a clear complexion.

5. You Only Use 10% of Your Brain

The myth that we only use 10% of our brain is as fictional as a fairy tale.

Brain scans reveal that we actually use all of our brain, just in different ways at different times. Every region of the brain has a known function, and we tap into our mental resources far more than the myth suggests. It’s a favorite in movies, suggesting untapped potential, but science firmly debunks this notion.

Whether you’re cooking, solving puzzles, or daydreaming, your brain is firing on all cylinders, even in your sleep. So rest easy knowing you’ve got your whole brain working for you, every step of the way.

6. Touching a Frog or Toad Gives You Warts

Toads have been unfairly blamed for causing warts, but the truth is they’re innocent.

Warts are caused by human viruses, specifically the human papillomavirus, and not by handling amphibians. Toads might have bumpy skin, but those bumps won’t transfer to yours. It’s safe to enjoy a little amphibian company without fearing an outbreak of warts.

Just remember basic hygiene—wash your hands after handling any animals outdoors. So, next time you encounter a frog prince, feel free to give it a gentle touch, knowing you won’t be taking home anything more than a delightful memory.

7. Santa Claus Sees You When You’re Sleeping

Sorry kids, Santa’s surveillance skills are more legend than reality.

While the idea of the jolly old man keeping tabs on your behavior all year is whimsical, it’s not quite how he operates. Santa relies more on parental intel than personal observation. It’s a charming tale to encourage good behavior, but rest assured, your private moments are safe from the North Pole’s watchful eye.

So, feel free to dream peacefully, because Santa’s more interested in what’s on your wishlist than your sleep schedule. Enjoy the magic of Christmas without worrying about midnight snooping by the big guy!

8. Shaving Makes Hair Grow Back Thicker

The myth that shaving makes hair grow back thicker is as stubborn as a five o’clock shadow.

When you shave, you cut hair at the surface, creating a blunt edge. This edge might feel coarse or thicker as it grows out, but rest assured, your hair isn’t changing its natural texture or color. Shaving doesn’t alter the follicle or growth rate—it’s all about perception.

So go ahead, shave as needed, knowing you’re not fueling a follicular frenzy. Your hair will return to its usual state, ready for whatever style you choose next. It’s all smooth sailing from here!

9. Eating Carrots Improves Your Eyesight

Carrots may be good for your eyes, but they won’t grant you superhuman vision.

This myth sprouted during WWII as propaganda, suggesting that British pilots had night vision thanks to their carrot consumption. While carrots are rich in vitamin A, essential for maintaining healthy vision, they won’t fix eyesight issues or allow you to see in the dark.

Eating a balanced diet is always wise, but don’t expect carrots to replace your glasses. Enjoy them as part of a nutritious meal and maybe wink at the clever wartime story that made them a household name. After all, healthy eyes are happy eyes, even without superpowers.

10. Eating Watermelon Seeds Makes a Watermelon Grow in Your Stomach

As a kid, the thought of a watermelon sprouting in your stomach from a swallowed seed was terrifying.

Fortunately, this is one garden that won’t grow. Swallowed seeds simply pass through your digestive system without incident. They won’t take root, and you won’t sprout vines overnight. This playful myth might have been a way to prevent choking hazards, but rest assured, it’s all in good fun.

Enjoy your watermelon slices without fear of farming in your belly. Just eat responsibly, and maybe spit seeds for sport rather than sustenance. It’s a picnic pastime, not a planting session!

11. Goldfish Have a 3-Second Memory

Goldfish have long been underestimated with the myth of a three-second memory. In reality, these aquatic friends can remember things for months and are smarter than we’ve given them credit for.

Studies indicate they can be trained to recognize patterns and even perform tricks. So, next time you’re at the pet store, know that goldfish aren’t the goldfish bowl’s equivalent of goldfish crackers. They’re capable of learning and adapting, making them more interesting companions than previously thought.

So appreciate your finned friends for their surprising intelligence and knack for remembering who’s feeding them, even if it’s not as instant as a human brain.

12. If You Eat Before Swimming, You’ll Get Cramps and Drown

The warning to avoid swimming immediately after eating is more about comfort than safety.

While swimming on a full stomach might feel uncomfortable, it won’t automatically lead to cramps or cause you to sink. Your body can handle digestion and a leisurely swim simultaneously without compromising safety. It’s all about moderation and listening to your body.

If you feel too full, take a short break before diving in. Enjoy your poolside snacks and swims responsibly, knowing that an after-meal dip isn’t a one-way ticket to Davy Jones’s locker. It’s just a matter of timing and preference, not peril.

13. Lightning Never Strikes the Same Place Twice

Those who believe that lightning never strikes the same place twice might be in for a shock—literally.

Lightning can and does strike the same location multiple times, especially tall structures like the Empire State Building. In fact, lightning often targets the same areas due to their height and conductive properties.

So, while it might seem rare, it’s more common than you’d think. Safety is always paramount during a storm, and knowing that lightning doesn’t play favorites is a key part of storm preparedness. Stay safe indoors and let Mother Nature put on her electrifying show from a safe distance.

14. A Penny Dropped from a Skyscraper Could End Someone’s Life

The image of a penny becoming a deadly missile is more fiction than fact.

While a penny dropped from a skyscraper would reach high speeds, it lacks the mass and aerodynamic shape to cause serious harm. It might sting if it hits you, but it won’t decapitate or penetrate the skull. The penny’s terminal velocity isn’t enough to make it a lethal projectile.

So, save your spare change and fears for more pressing concerns. Skyscrapers aren’t launching pads for coin attacks, and your safety is more threatened by the chaos of a busy street than a falling penny.

15. A Full Moon Can Affect People’s Behavior

The full moon’s influence on behavior isn’t just the stuff of werewolf folklore.

Studies have shown that hospitals often report an increase in activity during full moons, and some animals exhibit changes in behavior too. While science hasn’t fully explained this lunar link, the correlation persists across cultures and history.

Whether it’s coincidence or cosmic influence, the full moon continues to captivate human imagination and stir curiosity. So, next time the moon’s at its fullest, take a peek at the night sky and wonder about the mysteries it holds. It’s a fascinating phenomenon, even if we don’t howl at the moon.

16. People Can Spontaneously Combust

Spontaneous human combustion is more than just a fiery tale—it’s a documented phenomenon, though extremely rare.

Often linked to the “wick effect,” the body burns like a candle, with clothing and body fat providing fuel. While science has yet to fully explain it, cases have piqued curiosity and sparked debate. It’s not a daily danger, but it’s one of those eerie occurrences that baffle experts.

While the thought might ignite intrigue, living a healthy lifestyle remains a solid preventative measure against most real-world hazards. Rest assured, spontaneous combustion isn’t a common end—just a mysterious footnote in the annals of peculiar science.

17. Your Mattress Gains Weight Over Time Because of Dust Mites

The thought of your mattress gaining weight over time is enough to make anyone want a fresh one.

It’s true—dust mites, dead skin cells, and other debris accumulate, adding heft to your sleeping space. While it sounds like a nightmare, regular cleaning and using protective covers can help manage this issue.

Embrace good hygiene habits to keep your bed fresh and welcoming. After all, a good night’s sleep is priceless, and knowing what lurks in your mattress is all the motivation needed to maintain it. So, sleep soundly, knowing you’re not sharing your bed with an army of microscopic guests.

18. There Are Tiny Bugs Living in Your Eyelashes

Demodex mites live among our eyelashes, but don’t worry—they’re harmless cohabitants.

These tiny bugs are a normal part of the skin’s ecosystem and usually cause no issues. Almost everyone has them, and they’re invisible to the naked eye. While it might sound creepy, these mites help keep our skin healthy by consuming dead skin cells.

Maintaining good hygiene and skincare practices keeps them in check. Think of them as tiny custodians doing their part in the circle of life. So, next time you bat your lashes, remember there’s a team of microscopic helpers keeping things tidy.