The Good, The Bad, and The Hilarious: 70s Parenting Stories
Parenting is never an easy job, but it seems that each generation has its own unique challenges. In the 70s, parents faced many changes in society, and their parenting styles reflected these changes.
The Good
One of the positives of 70s parenting was the emphasis on free play and outdoor activities. Unlike the structured activities of today, 70s kids were free to roam the neighborhood and play with whoever happened to be outside. This independence allowed kids to explore their creativity and develop social skills on their own.
Parents in the 70s were also more relaxed about screen time. With only a few channels on TV and no smartphones or tablets, kids spent more time playing outside and using their imaginations. Many 70s kids remember playing board games or card games with their family, which helped to strengthen family bonds.
The Bad
However, not all aspects of 70s parenting were positive. Parents in the 70s were more likely to use corporal punishment, such as spanking, to discipline their children. This was seen as an acceptable method of punishment at the time, but studies have since shown that it can have negative effects on a child’s self-esteem and mental health.
70s parents were also less likely to talk openly about emotions or mental health. This meant that kids who were struggling with anxiety or depression may not have received the support they needed. Mental health was a taboo topic, and seeking therapy was seen as a weakness.
The Hilarious
Finally, there were many hilarious moments in 70s parenting. With no google to consult for parenting tips, parents had to rely on their instincts and advice from friends. This sometimes led to mistakes, such as a dad accidentally using a diaper rash cream as toothpaste or a mom trying to style her child’s hair with a vacuum cleaner.
Another hilarious aspect of 70s parenting was the fashion. 70s kids often wore brightly colored, mismatched outfits and had wild haircuts. Parents may cringe now at the old family photos, but these fashion choices were popular at the time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, 70s parenting had its ups and downs. While there were many positives, such as free play and screen time limits, there were also negative aspects, such as corporal punishment and a lack of support for mental health. Despite this, many parents look back fondly on their parenting experiences in the 70s and remember the hilarious moments with a smile.
