17 Things ’80s Kids Did That Would Horrify Parents Today
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Growing up in the 1980s was a unique experience, marked by a sense of freedom, adventure, and a lack of adult supervision that would be unthinkable by today’s parenting standards. From riding bikes without helmets to playing with dangerous toys, ’80s kids engaged in a wide range of activities that would likely horrify modern parents. Let’s take a nostalgic look back at 17 things that ’80s kids did that would be considered risky, inappropriate, or even illegal today.
Riding in the Front Seat of the Car
In the ’80s, it was common for kids to ride in the front seat of the car, often without a seatbelt. Many parents saw no problem with this practice, as cars were not equipped with airbags and the dangers of front-seat riding were not widely known. Today, however, it is illegal in most states for children under a certain age to ride in the front seat, and all passengers are required to wear seatbelts at all times.
Playing with Lawn Darts
Lawn darts, also known as Jarts, were a popular outdoor game in the 1980s that involved throwing large metal darts at a target in the grass. The darts had sharp metal tips and weighted bodies, making them incredibly dangerous if thrown improperly. Many kids played this game unsupervised, leading to countless injuries and even a few deaths before the Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the sale of metal-tipped lawn darts in 1988.
Riding Bikes Without Helmets
In the ’80s, seeing a kid riding a bike with a helmet was rare. Most kids simply hopped on their bikes and rode off, often performing daring stunts and jumps without any protective gear. Today, however, wearing a helmet while riding a bike is not only encouraged but often required by law. Parents today understand the serious risks of head injuries and would never let their children ride a bike without a helmet.
Going to the Mall Unsupervised
In the ’80s, it was common for kids to spend hours at the mall unsupervised, often with just a few dollars in their pocket. Parents would drop their kids off at the mall and pick them up later, trusting that they would behave themselves and not get into trouble. Today, however, most parents would never let their children go to the mall alone, citing concerns about stranger danger, theft, and other risks.
Playing with Chemistry Sets
Chemistry sets were a popular toy in the 1980s, allowing kids to perform a wide range of experiments with chemicals and other materials. However, these sets often contained dangerous substances like sulfuric acid and potassium permanganate, which could cause serious burns or respiratory problems if mishandled. Today, chemistry sets are still available but are heavily regulated and contain only safe, non-toxic materials.
Watching R-Rated Movies
In the ’80s, it was not uncommon for kids to watch R-rated movies, either at the theater or on VHS at home. Many parents saw no problem with this, as long as the child was mature enough to handle the content. Today, however, most parents are much more cautious about what their children watch and would never let them view an R-rated movie without adult supervision.
Eating Raw Cookie Dough
Eating raw cookie dough was a beloved treat for many ’80s kids, who would often sneak a spoonful or two while baking with their parents. However, we now know that raw cookie dough can contain harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, which can cause serious illness or even death. Today, most parents strongly discourage their children from eating raw cookie dough and opt for safer alternatives like edible cookie dough made with heat-treated flour and pasteurized eggs.
Playing with Cap Guns
Cap guns were a popular toy in the 1980s, allowing kids to play cowboys and Indians or cops and robbers with realistic-looking weapons. However, cap guns could be dangerous if used improperly, causing burns or hearing damage from the loud noise. Today, most parents are much more cautious about allowing their children to play with toy guns of any kind, citing concerns about violence and aggression.
Riding in the Back of a Pickup Truck
In the ’80s, it was common for kids to ride in the back of a pickup truck, often on long road trips or just around town. Parents saw no problem with this practice, as long as the kids were holding on tight and not fooling around. Today, however, riding in the back of a pickup truck is illegal in most states, as it puts passengers at risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident.
Playing with Fireworks
Playing with fireworks was a popular activity for many ’80s kids, especially around the Fourth of July. However, fireworks can be incredibly dangerous, causing serious burns, eye injuries, and even amputations if used improperly. Today, most parents strongly discourage their children from playing with fireworks and opt for safer alternatives like glow sticks or sparklers.
Drinking from the Garden Hose
In the ’80s, it was common for kids to drink from the garden hose on a hot summer day, often without a second thought about the quality of the water. However, we now know that garden hoses can contain harmful chemicals like lead and phthalates, which can leach into the water and cause serious health problems. Today, most parents provide their children with safe, clean drinking water and discourage them from drinking from the hose.
Playing with BB Guns
BB guns were a popular toy in the 1980s, allowing kids to shoot at targets or even each other in a game of “war.” However, BB guns can be incredibly dangerous, causing serious injuries like broken bones, eye damage, and even death if used improperly. Today, most parents strongly discourage their children from playing with BB guns and opt for safer alternatives like Nerf guns or laser tag.
Riding a Bike Without Reflectors or Lights
In the ’80s, it was common for kids to ride their bikes at night without any reflectors or lights, often wearing dark clothing that made them difficult to see. However, we now know that this practice is incredibly dangerous, as it puts cyclists at risk of being hit by cars or other vehicles. Today, most parents ensure that their children’s bikes are equipped with proper reflectors and lights and encourage them to wear bright, reflective clothing when riding at night.
Playing on Metal Playground Equipment
In the 1980s, most playgrounds were equipped with metal slides, swings, and monkey bars, often with hard concrete or asphalt surfaces underneath. However, we now know that metal playground equipment can become dangerously hot in the summer sun and can cause serious injuries if a child falls. Today, most playgrounds are equipped with safer, more durable materials like plastic and rubber, with soft surfaces like mulch or sand to cushion falls.
Eating Sugary Cereals for Breakfast
In the ’80s, sugary cereals like Froot Loops, Lucky Charms, and Cap’n Crunch were a staple breakfast food for many kids. Parents saw no problem with this, as long as their children were eating something in the morning. Today, however, most parents are much more aware of the dangers of excessive sugar consumption and opt for healthier breakfast options like oatmeal, eggs, or whole-grain toast.
Playing with Toy Guns That Look Real
In the 1980s, it was common for kids to play with toy guns that looked incredibly realistic, often made of metal or hard plastic. However, we now know that this practice can be incredibly dangerous, as it can lead to confusion and even violence if the toy gun is mistaken for a real weapon. Today, most parents opt for toy guns that are brightly colored and clearly marked as toys, with orange tips to distinguish them from real firearms.
Going to the Beach Without Sunscreen
In the ’80s, it was common for kids to spend hours at the beach without any sunscreen, often coming home with painful sunburns and peeling skin. However, we now know that excessive sun exposure can lead to serious health problems like skin cancer and premature aging. Today, most parents are much more vigilant about protecting their children’s skin, applying sunscreen regularly and encouraging them to wear protective clothing and hats when spending time outdoors.
15 Once Common Experiences That Are Now Rare
15 Once Common Experiences That Are Now Rare
