The world is a much different place now than it once was. To say the world had completely changed, in terms of entertainment, in terms of child-raising, really, in terms of everything, would be an understatement.
And while our parents may not have been perfect, there are a lot of things they did differently and even better than parents today. That isn’t to point fingers. But it is to say that there is nothing wrong with simplifying and bringing back many of the best aspects of the past and integrating them into our world and parenting practices in modern times. Many of those parenting practices could very well be exactly what today’s generation needs.
Here are 9 things that should be brought back.
1. Making kids play outside.
In modern times, fewer and fewer kids are playing outside, and more and more kids are stuck on tablets and phones. Unfortunately, kids today are getting far less free play time, which is beneficial to building social skills, and problem-solving skills and provides them with activity and fresh air. Kids need this time to grow and thrive.
2. Trusting your child.
Do you remember the days when parents would allow their kids to jump on their bikes to ride to their friends a few blocks over? Or, when parents would let their kids out to play and wouldn’t worry about them for hours? Many believe this is dangerous, however, it’s important to note that your child is far more likely to get struck by lightning than they are to be kidnapped. I’m not saying to just let them loose and allow them to do whatever, but it’s okay to loosen the reigns a bit and give them space to grow, explore and learn.
3. Making family a priority.
Once upon a time, there was a major focus on family. There were family reunions. Kids had to be home by a certain time for family meals, and when the weekends rolled around, at least one day was dedicated to family time. Now, our schedules are so jam-packed we even have time for family. But the thing is- YOU are the one that has to make these things a priority.
4. Eating family dinner.
Family meals are a great time to catch up with your family and bond with them. During these meals, family discussions were had. A meal was shared and common ground was found. While I would barter that a few still do this, it has become far less important of practice in modern times than it once was, and honestly, I say let’s bring it back.
5. Allow your kids to be bored.
So many parents are so afraid their kids might get bored, that they constantly fill their schedule with activities and extracurriculars. However, boredom is where creativity is cultivated. Boredom motivates us to dream. We need that time, and boring time is so beneficial to your kids.
6. Give your kids chores.
My parents did not hesitate to give me chores. Basically, from the time I could clean my room, I did. From the time I could wash dishes and fold laundry, I did. And I am glad I did. When I moved out on my own, I was able to immediately pick up on taking on responsibility because it was nothing new to me. This is why I believe it’s so counterproductive to not give your child chores.
7. Respect the elderly.
People are so disrespectful these days, especially kids. I’ve noticed so many kids being disrespectful to elderly people as of late, and if my mom would have EVER seen me talking in a way that was disrespectful to an adult when I was a kid, I would have been immediately corrected. So, please teach your children to stand up for and respect people, especially the elderly and the weak.
8. Embrace downtime.
It’s okay to have some downtime. It’s much needed. So, instead of rushing to go do something because there’s nothing to do, take a step back and chill.
9. Establish house rules.
Once upon a time, everyone had their own house rules. When a child would come over, they were expected to follow the house rules and that was that. And their parents understood that was the case. Now, when a child is reprimanded by another adult, their parent rushes over to undermine their authority. In reality, in the real world, we are expected to follow the rules of the road, and the rules can change based on where we are at. If we tried to fight that by saying, “Well, it’s different where I live,” that would get us nowhere.