10 ‘Lost’ Household Skills Every 60s Teen Had to Master (Plus 4 That Might Surprise You)

Being a teenager in the 1960s wasn’t just about rocking out to the latest hits or cruising in a classic car—it also meant knowing a thing or two about running a household.

Back then, teens were expected to master everyday skills that kept life running smoothly, from sewing a loose button to cooking a meal from scratch. In today’s world of instant everything, many of these once-essential talents have faded into the past.

Join us as we take a nostalgic look at 14 household skills every ’60s teen had to know, some of which might just be worth bringing back!

1. Sewing a Button

Sewing a button might seem trivial today, but in the 1960s, it was a rite of passage. Teens were expected to mend their own clothes, a skill often taught by parents at home. This skill saved money and taught patience. Imagine the satisfaction of fixing your favorite blouse instead of tossing it!

Today, with fast fashion, many would rather replace than repair. However, knowing how to sew a button can still save the day when you’re in a pinch. It’s a small yet mighty skill that connects us to a more resourceful past.

2. Cooking from Scratch

This skill was a necessity for 1960s teens, long before the age of ready meals and takeouts. It involved learning family recipes and understanding ingredients. Parents emphasized this skill to ensure their children could fend for themselves.

While today’s teens have microwave dinners, knowing how to whip up a meal remains invaluable. The aroma of fresh-baked bread or a simmering stew is unmatched. Cooking from scratch fosters creativity, patience, and a deeper connection to food, offering a delicious slice of nostalgia.

3. Balancing a Checkbook

In the 60s, financial literacy was taught through balancing a checkbook. Teens learned to manage money, tracking every penny. This skill was crucial before digital banking. It taught discipline, responsibility, and a clear understanding of personal finances.

While apps do the work today, the basics of budgeting haven’t changed. Knowing how to balance a checkbook today can prevent overspending and encourage saving. It’s a foundational skill that empowered teens in the past and remains useful in understanding the flow of money.

4. Ironing Clothes

Ironing was a must-have skill for any ’60s teen. Crisp, wrinkle-free attire was the norm, demanding regular practice with an iron. Teens learned to iron shirts, skirts, and slacks to perfection. This skill was about presentation and personal pride, reflecting the era’s high grooming standards.

While many modern fabrics are wrinkle-resistant, knowing how to iron can still come in handy for special occasions. Mastering this skill offers a sense of accomplishment and a nod to meticulous attention to detail.

5. Gardening Basics

Gardening was a skill passed down from parents to 1960s teens, often involving the cultivation of vegetables and flowers. It taught responsibility and the joy of nurturing life. Teens learned about soil, seasons, and the patience needed to see results.

While modern conveniences make fresh produce readily available, gardening remains a rewarding hobby. It connects us to nature and provides a sense of accomplishment. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the taste of a home-grown tomato, a sweet reminder of simpler times.

6. Knitting and Crocheting

Knitting and crocheting were popular pastimes in the 60s, providing teens with a creative outlet and practical products. These skills were taught by family members, offering a sense of accomplishment with each completed project. Whether making scarves or blankets, these crafts taught patience and precision.

Today, while mass-produced items are readily available, knitting and crocheting remain popular hobbies. They offer a meditative escape from digital screens and connect us to a rich tradition of handmade creativity and warmth.

7. Baking Bread

This one was a staple skill for any 60s teen, long before bread machines and pre-sliced loaves. It was not just about sustenance but also about creating something from scratch. Teens learned to measure, knead, and patiently wait for dough to rise. Baking taught precision and patience, resulting in the rewarding aroma of fresh bread.

Although convenience often wins today, baking bread remains a satisfying and therapeutic experience. It allows one to slow down and savor the process, echoing the past’s simpler pleasures.

8. Car Maintenance

Car maintenance was a practical skill every 60s teen aimed to master. With fewer mechanics available, knowing how to change a tire or check the oil was essential. This knowledge fostered independence and saved money. Teens often learned from hands-on experience in the driveway.

While modern cars are more complex, basic car maintenance remains useful. Understanding vehicle care can prevent breakdowns and extend a car’s life, providing self-reliance and a sense of accomplishment still appreciated today.

9. Making Homemade Jam

Knowing how to turn fresh fruit into sweet spreads was a cherished skill for 60s teens. This practice taught the importance of preserving seasonal foods. Teens learned to sterilize jars and balance flavors, creating delicious results.

While grocery stores now offer countless options, homemade jam provides a unique and personal touch. The process invites creativity and connects us to a tradition of resourcefulness. It’s a delightful way to savor the natural sweetness of fruit, capturing a taste of the past.

10. Writing Letters

Writing letters was an essential communication skill before the digital age. Teens expressed thoughts and emotions through carefully penned words, learning the art of storytelling and empathy. This practice fostered connections and patience, waiting for replies.

Though emails and texts dominate today, letter writing offers a personal touch missing in digital communication. Crafting a heartfelt letter can still surprise and delight, providing a tangible piece of one’s thoughts and feelings. It’s a timeless skill that celebrates the power of words.

11. Canning and Preserving

Canning and preserving were vital skills for 60s teens, extending the shelf life of garden produce. This practice was about sustainability and reducing waste, teaching the importance of food preservation. Teens learned techniques like boiling and sealing jars for longevity.

While convenient store-bought options abound, canning at home offers fresher flavors and less environmental impact. It provides a sense of self-sufficiency and a connection to sustainable practices. Preserving food remains a rewarding and eco-friendly tradition.

12. Mending Clothes

Mending clothes emphasized frugality and creativity. Teens learned to patch holes and repair seams, extending the life of their clothing. This saved money and resources, reflecting a culture of make-do. Even with today’s fast fashion, mending is a valuable skill.

It fosters creativity and sustainability, allowing one to personalize clothing and reduce waste. Mending connects us to a past where resourcefulness was key, offering a practical way to cherish and care for our belongings.

13. Setting a Proper Table

Setting a proper table was an art and essential social skill for 60s teens. It involved understanding where each piece of cutlery and china belonged, reflecting etiquette and hospitality. This skill was crucial for family gatherings and social events.

While casual dining is the norm today, knowing how to set a table can still impress. It shows attention to detail and respect for guests, enhancing any meal experience. Reviving this skill brings elegance and charm to dining, celebrating the social traditions of the past.

14. Household Budgeting

Finally, household budgeting taught 60s teens financial responsibility and planning. Teens learned to allocate funds, track expenses, and save for rainy days. This practice instilled discipline and an understanding of money management. Although digital tools simplify budgeting today, the principles remain the same.

Crafting a budget can prevent debt and encourage saving, offering peace of mind. It’s a skill that builds confidence and security, connecting us to a history of prudent financial practices. Budgeting remains a cornerstone of personal finance.