Photos That Show How Parenting Standards Have Changed Over Time

Most of these things would NEVER be allowed now

We talk a lot about how children today are wrapped in bubble wrap. This alleged wrapping is done to protect children from getting hurt, which can also be referred to as “caring for them.” Obviously, over time, we have learned more about how to best keep children safe. Looking back at some of these pictures is honestly quite alarming; I mean, surely these parents knew better?

[ADVERTISEMENT]

Given how dangerous some of these photos are, I don’t think that taking care of them by proverbially wrapping them in cotton wool will do any harm, especially if you want them to stay alive. Regardless, many of these photos are humorous and show how much society has changed in a short period of time.

[ADVERTISEMENT]

Did fire safety lessons not exist in the 1980s?

1991 in Australia: drinking beer, light beer (of course).

This guy who has probably never been cooler since 1958

This kid (in the box!) with his parents at the marijuana initiative rally in 1972

This photograph taken in 1955 in Germany of Princess Yvonne and Prince Alexander, captured by Princess Marianne Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn

Princess Yvonne and Prince Alexander, by Princess Marianne Sayn-Wittgenstein-Sayn 1955

Unsure whom I am more concerned about falling: the bear or the child.

Vietnam, 1970.

It may not be properly secured, but at least it has a steering wheel

A very safe swimming lesson in the 1930s

When your mum is a vet in the 1950s... oh, just get a pet lion; no biggie!

A car seat in 1958

In 1954, you didn't even have to leave the room to do things behind your parents' backs

This two-year-old riding a BEAR

A pet lion in the 1970s!

Apparently, the zoo went out of business, so they just... offered to buy it... and they did...

This kid dressed up as his dad in 1982

Luckily, in the years since, we've made some progress on animal rights!

Safety standards of the 1960s

These new parents taking their baby ice skating in 1937

Beer will probably keep a baby quieter than most other bottles

This brave mum being a BMX ramp in the 1980s

This mother in the 1970s... smoking just after giving birth

A Harley with a baby seat in 1962

A Harley with a baby seat in 1962Bored Panda
[ADVERTISEMENT]

More articles you might like