15 Old-School Parenting Rules From The ’60s That Would Be Outrageous Today

The 1960s were a wild ride of change, rebellion, and cultural revolutions, but let’s talk about something even more mind-blowing—how parents raised their kids back then!

Some of their methods seem as outdated as rotary phones, bell-bottoms, and shag carpeting. Picture this: no car seats, kids roaming the neighborhood until dark with zero supervision, and cigarette smoke practically counted as fresh air. Yikes!

Back then, discipline meant a stern look (or worse), and safety? Well, that was more of a suggestion than a rule. Parents had a hands-off, “they’ll be fine” attitude, letting kids learn the hard way—literally. And let’s not forget how casually smoking, drinking, and even hitchhiking fit into daily life.

So, buckle up (or don’t, if you’re following ‘60s logic) as we take a hilarious, eyebrow-raising trip down memory lane with 15 parenting rules that will leave you wondering, “What were they thinking?!”

1. Car Seats Were Optional—Or Didn’t Exist at All

Zooming down the highway at 80 mph with kids precariously rolling around in the backseat was as common as Elvis’s sideburns. Car seats? Not in the vocabulary.

Safety was more of a suggestion than a rule back then. Imagine a time when sitting on mom’s lap while dad smoked a cigarette was the norm. Seat belts were as elusive as a Beatles reunion, and the dashboard was considered a safety feature.

If you mentioned child safety seats, you’d likely receive a puzzled look and a pat on the back for your creative thinking. Times have changed, and so have our ideas about keeping children secure. Today, car seats are not just necessary; they’re required by law. But back in the ’60s, a car ride was more of a thrilling roller coaster without the safety bar.

2. Smoking Around Kids Was Totally Normal

Lighting up a cigarette indoors or in the car was as natural as butter on bread. In the ’60s, doctors would even appear in advertisements promoting certain cigarette brands. It wasn’t unusual for parents to enjoy a smoke at the dinner table, right next to their children, as if tobacco was the secret ingredient to family bonding.

The living room was often filled with a haze thicker than a foggy London day, and no one seemed to mind. The idea of smoking outside to protect the little ones was as foreign as a trip to the moon.

Fast forward to today, and you’ll find smoking bans in public spaces and a raised awareness of secondhand smoke dangers. We’ve learned a lot since then, and the days of puffing away without a care have thankfully gone up in smoke.

3. Drinking While Pregnant Wasn’t a Big Deal

A glass of wine or two during pregnancy was not only acceptable, it was sometimes encouraged. Some doctors even recommended beer, claiming it was “good for the baby,” perhaps thinking it would lead to a future in good spirits.

The idea of abstaining from alcohol while expecting was as rare as a unicorn sighting at Woodstock. Pregnant women at parties might be seen with a cocktail in hand, as if toasting to their little one’s future achievements. Today, expecting mothers are advised to steer clear of alcohol entirely.

We’ve come to understand the risks associated with drinking during pregnancy, making the laissez-faire attitude of the ’60s a head-scratcher. It’s a classic case of “what were they thinking?” but at least we’ve learned from our mistakes and now have clearer guidelines for prenatal care.

4. Kids Were Free to Roam… Like, Anywhere

The world was a playground, and kids in the ’60s were the ultimate explorers. No need for GPS tracking or constant check-ins; if you left in the morning and returned by sunset, it was a success. Parents embraced the “free-range” philosophy long before it became a buzzword, trusting that their children would find their way back.

Streets echoed with the laughter of unsupervised play, while parents enjoyed a rare moment of peace at home. Today, the thought of letting kids roam without supervision may seem as antiquated as a rotary phone.

We’ve traded in that freedom for structured playdates and constant digital connection. The carefree days of unbridled adventure are a cherished memory for some, but modern parents are more likely to keep their little ones on a tighter leash. It’s a balancing act between safety and independence.

5. Spanking (Or Worse) Was a Normal Punishment

In an era where obedience was paramount, spanking was as common as bell-bottom jeans. Parents, teachers, and even neighbors could administer a good spanking without raising eyebrows. A belt or wooden spoon was standard equipment in the discipline toolkit.

The philosophy was simple: “Spare the rod, spoil the child.” Today, such methods might land you in trouble faster than you can say “time out.” Modern parenting leans more towards positive reinforcement and communication rather than physical discipline. Yet, in the ’60s, tough love was the norm, and children learned quickly where they stood.

While the methods may have been as harsh as a winter breeze, they were rarely questioned. Times have changed, and most agree that there are better ways to teach right from wrong without leaving a mark. The belt has been replaced by conversations and understanding.

6. No Helmets, No Pads, No Problem!

Skateboards, bikes, and roller skates came with an unspoken rule: no helmets, no pads, no problem! The ’60s were all about feeling the wind in your hair and the pavement under your wheels. Protective gear was considered optional, if not downright unnecessary.

After all, “falling builds character,” right? Kids of the ’60s were tough as nails, and a scraped knee was merely a badge of honor. Fast forward a few decades, and helmets have become as essential as sunscreen on a sunny day. Parents today wouldn’t dream of letting their little ones hit the pavement without proper protection.

While the carefree spirit of the ’60s might evoke nostalgia, our modern understanding of safety ensures that future adventurers can enjoy the ride without unnecessary risks. Helmets are in, and so is peace of mind.

7. Latchkey Kids Were Everywhere

The term “latchkey kid” was coined to describe children who came home to empty houses, a latchkey worn like a medal of independence. Imagine a time when kids as young as six or seven would fumble with their house keys, fix themselves a snack, and entertain themselves until their parents returned.

It was a rite of passage, a badge of self-sufficiency that today’s parents might find unsettling. In the ’60s, it was normal. Fast forward to today, and the notion seems about as outdated as a black-and-white TV. We’ve become more cautious, with after-school programs and babysitters becoming the norm.

While the independence of latchkey kids was admired, today’s emphasis on supervision and safety reflects a shift in priorities. Independence might still be celebrated, but now it’s carefully balanced with guidance and care.

8. “Clean Your Plate” Was a Strict Rule

“Clean your plate, or no dessert!” was a universal command that echoed through ’60s households. Parents believed in the “waste not, want not” mantra, and leftovers were as rare as a double rainbow. Mystery meatloaf, cold peas, or unappetizing casseroles—kids were expected to eat it all.

The idea was simple: children should appreciate their food, regardless of taste or texture. Fast forward to today, and dietary choices are more flexible, with an understanding of individual preferences and nutritional needs.

The rigidity of the “clean your plate” rule has given way to a focus on balanced eating and listening to one’s body. While the ’60s might seem like a culinary battlefield, modern parents aim to foster positive relationships with food. It’s less about obligation and more about nourishment and enjoyment.

9. Everyone Drank from the Hose

Ah, the taste of hose water on a hot summer day—a nostalgic memory for many who grew up in the ’60s. Who needed bottled water when a garden hose was readily available? The metallic tang was oddly refreshing, a rite of passage for any child playing outside.

Parents didn’t fret over hydration as much as they do today, trusting that their kids would drink when thirsty and from whatever source was handy. Today, bottled water is as common as smartphones, and concerns about contamination have led to a more cautious approach.

The carefree days of hose-drinking may have faded, but the memories linger. Modern parents ensure their kids stay hydrated with filtered water, but they might secretly long for the simplicity of a hose and a sunny afternoon. The nostalgia of the ’60s has a way of quenching our thirst for the past.

10. “Go Play Outside” Wasn’t a Suggestion—It Was an Order

In the ’60s, “Go play outside” was more than a suggestion—it was a command. Parents needed peace and quiet, and the outdoors was the perfect babysitter. Kids would scatter to play games, build forts, or ride bikes, only to return when the streetlights came on.

The world was a playground, and imagination was the only limit. Today, screens and scheduled activities have replaced much of that free play, with parents often acting as chauffeurs and coordinators. While the command to “go outside” might still be heard, it’s often accompanied by supervision and planned activities.

The freedom of the ’60s allowed for creativity and independence, but modern parents strive to strike a balance between freedom and safety. Outdoor play remains essential, but the landscape has changed, reflecting a more structured and cautious approach to childhood adventures.

11. If You Got Hurt, You’d “Walk It Off”

Got a bump, bruise, or scrape? In the ’60s, the solution was simple: “Walk it off.” Parents weren’t rushing to the emergency room for every minor injury, believing that a little pain built character. A Band-Aid and a hug were usually enough to get you back on your feet.

Today, the sight of a child falling sends parents into a tizzy, armed with first-aid kits and instant reassurance. While modern medicine has made strides in treating injuries, the resilience of ’60s kids was something to behold.

Bruises were badges of honor, and a tough exterior was admired. Our approach to injuries may have softened, but the lessons in resilience continue to hold value. The ’60s taught us that sometimes, a little grit goes a long way, even if it means a few extra scrapes along the way.

12. Bedtime Was Whenever You Passed Out

In an era when parenting books were as rare as unicorns, bedtime was a flexible concept. Kids went to sleep when they were tired, often nodding off in front of the TV. There were no strict schedules, and “bedtime” was more of a suggestion than a rule.

Today, parents are armed with sleep studies and routines designed to optimize rest. Bedtimes are carefully coordinated, with the aim of ensuring optimal growth and development. The ’60s approach might seem laid-back, but it came with its own set of challenges.

While the idea of passing out wherever you landed might raise eyebrows today, it reflects a time when structure took a backseat to spontaneity. Modern parents aim for a balance, recognizing the importance of rest while embracing the occasional late-night adventure. Sleep might be more regimented now, but a little nostalgia never hurt anyone.

13. Sugar and Soda Were Breakfast Staples

Breakfast in the ’60s was a sugar lover’s dream. Cereal boxes boasted a sugar content that would make modern nutritionists cringe, and a glass of soda wasn’t out of place. The idea of starting the day with a sugar rush was as common as a morning cup of coffee.

Parents didn’t fret over sugar intake, believing that a hearty breakfast would fuel their kids for the day. Fast forward to today, and you’ll find parents scrutinizing nutrition labels and opting for whole grains and reduced sugar.

The breakfast table has transformed, reflecting a shift towards healthier choices and mindful eating. While the sugar-coated mornings of the ’60s might evoke fond memories, our understanding of nutrition has evolved. Balance is key, and the modern breakfast aims to nourish both body and mind, without the sugar crash.

14. Strangers Could Yell at You (And Even Discipline You!)

In the ’60s, it took a village to raise a child—and that village wasn’t shy about stepping in if you misbehaved. Neighbors felt empowered to discipline kids, whether with a stern word or a wagging finger. Parents appreciated the extra eyes and ears, believing it reinforced community values.

The idea of a stranger reprimanding your child might seem as outdated as a rotary phone today. Modern parents are more protective, preferring to handle discipline within the family. While the communal approach of the ’60s might seem intrusive now, it reflects a time when community ties were strong, and everyone looked out for one another.

The landscape has changed, but the underlying desire for a supportive community remains. Today’s parents seek a balance, welcoming support while maintaining boundaries, ensuring that children feel secure within their world.

15. Parents Weren’t “Friends” With Their Kids

In an era where parents were the authority figures, friendship with children was not on the agenda. The goal was to raise respectful and obedient offspring, not to win “Parent of the Year” as a best friend. Conversations were often more about instruction than discussion, with little room for “let’s talk about your feelings.”

The concept of gentle parenting was as foreign as a color TV in the ’50s. Today, the relationship between parents and children has evolved, embracing open dialogue and mutual respect. While the authoritative approach of the ’60s might seem rigid, it was a reflection of the times.

Modern parents strive to connect with their children on an emotional level, fostering trust and understanding. The shift from authority to ally marks a positive change, ensuring that relationships are built on love and respect, not just obedience.