Outdated Parenting Advice from the 80s: What's Changed and Why
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Parenting in the 80s was a whole different ballgame! Some advice that was golden back then is now seen as outdated—or even harmful. Check out these 18 common 80s parenting tips that modern experts recommend avoiding.
1. “Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child”
Back in the day, spanking was all the rage. Now, we know it can lead to aggression and emotional problems. Today, positive reinforcement and clear boundaries are the way to go.
2. Early Weaning from Breastfeeding
Early weaning was a big thing in the 80s. Now, the WHO says exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is best, and continuing alongside other foods up to two years or more is even better.
3. Unsupervised Outdoor Play
Remember when kids roamed the neighborhood freely? While outdoor play is still great, we now know it’s safer with some adult supervision.
4. Letting Babies Cry It Out
“Cry it out” was the go-to sleep training method. Today, we understand that responding to a baby’s cries helps build trust and security, which is crucial for their emotional health.
5. Strict Gender Roles
Toys and activities were super gendered in the 80s. Now, we let kids explore whatever interests them, free from stereotypes.
6. TV as a Babysitter
The TV was often the babysitter. Today, we know that too much screen time isn’t great for kids. Instead, we encourage more physical and imaginative play.
7. “Clean Plate Club”
Forcing kids to finish all their food was a common practice. Now, we understand that it can lead to unhealthy eating habits. It’s better to let kids listen to their own hunger and fullness cues.
8. Lack of Mental Health Awareness
Mental health wasn’t a big topic. Today, recognizing and addressing mental health from a young age is crucial for overall well-being.
9. Limited Parental Involvement in Education
Parents were less involved in their kids’ education. Now, active parental involvement is key to academic success and overall development.
10. Minimal Conversations about Feelings
Talking about feelings wasn’t a priority. Modern parenting focuses on helping kids understand and express their emotions, building emotional intelligence.
11. Playpens for Extended Periods
Kids spent a lot of time in playpens. Now, we know they need ample space and time for free movement and exploration.
12. Soda and Sugary Snacks
Sugary snacks and soda were staples. Today, a balanced diet with limited sugar intake is recommended to prevent health issues like obesity and diabetes.
13. Ignoring Food Allergies
Food allergies weren’t taken as seriously. Now, we know that awareness and precautions regarding food allergies are critical.
14. No Car Seats for Older Kids
Car seat regulations were pretty relaxed. Today, the use of age-appropriate car seats and booster seats is strictly enforced for safety.
15. Sun Exposure without Protection
Sunscreen wasn’t a big deal. Now, protecting kids from harmful UV rays with sunscreen and appropriate clothing is standard.
16. Permissive Bedtimes
Flexible bedtimes were common. Consistent bedtimes are now known to be important for a child’s health and routine.
17. Smoking Around Children
Smoking in homes and cars around kids was widespread. Today, we know the dangers of secondhand smoke and strongly advocate for smoke-free environments.
18. Ignoring Childproofing
Homes weren’t always childproofed. Now, ensuring a safe home environment by childproofing is a common practice to prevent accidents.
Parenting advice keeps evolving as we learn more about child development and health. Understanding the past helps us appreciate the advancements in parenting practices today.
Adapted from MSN: 18 Common Parenting Tips from the 80s That Are Now Seen as Harmful
