Boomers grew up in a completely different world from today. It was a simpler life but it also had its challenges that might now seem shocking. From playing with poisonous toys to surviving without basic safety precautions, their childhood was full of things younger generations will find shocking. Some of these experiences can be difficult to imagine in our modern world of safety and technology. Here are a few of the shocking experiences Boomers went through that would seem unbelievable today.
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Riding in Cars Without Seatbelts
Back then there were no seatbelts in the back of cars, and nobody cared. Families packed into cars as best they could – children often moved around freely. Some even stood up or sat on laps while the car drove. Open pickup trucks were a popular and amusing way of getting around. Strict seatbelt requirements and car seat regulations now make these pre-existing practices look shocking.
Playing Outside Until Dark
Boomers were free in a way that children today aren’t. They’d leave the house early, wander the streets, bike around or go for walks in the woods. Parents weren’t worried so much about kidnappers or accidents. The only condition was to return home at the end of dinner or when the street lights switched on. These days, most parents are a little more cautious, and kids play closer to home or with adults around.
Smoking Was Everywhere
Smoking was part of the Boomer lifestyle. People smoked in restaurants, workplaces, and even hospitals. Parents smoked in their own homes and cars, right there with their children. It wasn’t also rare for teens to take up smoking in high school – some were even encouraged to try it. Smoking is less prevalent now thanks to restrictive legislation and health initiatives, particularly in the presence of children.
Lead in Everyday Items
Boomers were surrounded by lead without realizing it was harmful. Wall paint, toys & even water lines, had lead. Children would play with the lead-painted toys and bite them without anyone realizing that they were in danger. Today lead is outlawed in these products because it is extremely dangerous to health, particularly to children.
Corporal Punishment in Schools
It was a typical punishment for Boomers to get hit with a paddle or ruler at school. Teachers and principals were permitted to physically discipline children. Parents were on board with it – they thought it was character-building. The practice is now outlawed everywhere and considered a source of mental and emotional damage to children.
Dangerous Toys
A great many of the toys Boomers played with would not have met safety standards today. Lawn darts, for instance, were dangerous metal darts that could injure you. And there were actual chemicals that might be harmful in chemistry sets. Children would play with these unsupervised. These days, toy safety is a major concern and dangerous toys are banned or made safer.
Drinking from Garden Hoses
Boomers grew up in a world where it was OK to drink straight from the garden hose. Once they were done playing around, kids would grab the hose for a quick drink. Nobody worried about bacteria or chemicals back then. People do not do this anymore, since hoses may contain bacteria, lead or other toxic elements. Most opt instead for filtered or bottled water, which feels safer.
Limited Medical Knowledge
Medical services were very different when Boomers were young. Disorders such as ADHD or anxiety were not usually diagnosed or treated. Vaccines were few, polio was terrifying. Doctors smoked in hospitals. Medical understanding has grown – safety & mental health are now more important than ever.
Walking to School Alone
Boomers often walked miles to school unaccompanied by an adult. Some crossed busy crossroads or walked through the countryside. Parents didn’t find this dangerous – it was how they grew up. Less children nowadays walk to school in fear of traffic, strangers or accidents. Parents drive them or take buses.
Unfiltered TV and Ads
Boomers were exposed to TV and advertisements that wouldn’t be allowed today. Television programs routinely had stereotypes or violence now deemed offensive. Cigarette and liquor commercials appeared on every program, even kids’ channels. Today, stricter regulations ensure more age-appropriate content in TV and advertising.
Lack of Instant Communication
Boomers didn’t have cellphones or the internet. They called landlines or sent a letter if they wanted to talk to someone. It was slower to get help in an emergency as there were no mobile phones. The world today is constantly connected – in fact, there’s no way we could live without instantaneous communication.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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