22 Childhood Rules We Dutifully Followed That Kids Today Will Never Get (or Follow)
When we were growing up, rules were rules, and there was no arguing. While many parents today have embraced “gentle parenting,” something must be said for the benefits of the tough love and structure we had back in the day. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the childhood rules we blindly followed and why today’s kids will never comprehend, let alone agree.
1. We Had to Save Snacks For After Dinner
No sneaking snacks before dinner. You had to wait for your meal and weren’t allowed to spoil your appetite. And ice cream or dessert was more of a Friday night luxury. Today’s kids are snack fiends, but reinforcing this old rule could help build healthier eating habits. It’s about teaching moderation and patience and that food is more enjoyable when you’re hungry.
2. We Had to Eat What Was on Our Plate or Starve
There was no getting up from the table unless your plate was cleared. We didn’t get to be picky or say, “I don’t like it.” You either ate the meal, or you didn’t eat at all. This rule taught us not only not to be wasteful but it instilled a sense of gratitude. It reminded us that not everyone had the luxury of a home-cooked meal every night. Kids today have way more say in what they eat, but maybe some would benefit from learning a little appreciation for what’s on their plate.
3. We Had to Save to Buy What We Wanted
There was no easy access to your parents’ wallets or Amazon accounts. If you wanted something, you had to save up for it. Whether collecting change in a piggy bank or saving your birthday money, you learned the value of hard work and delayed gratification. Today’s kids are more used to instant access and instant gratification, and while that’s convenient, it misses the point of learning financial responsibility. Saving for something you want still teaches patience and discipline.
4. We Had to Play Outside Until Dark
Before screens dominated every waking moment, the world was our playground. You’d be out riding bikes, playing tag, or climbing trees with your friends until those streetlights flickered on, signaling it was time to come home. This taught us independence and creativity. We learned to navigate social dynamics, settle disagreements without adults, and be active. Today, kids are more plugged into their screens than ever, and they’re missing out on the joy of unstructured, outdoor play. Maybe it’s time to bring back some outdoor adventure.
5. We Had to Show Your Elders the Utmost Respect
“Respect your elders” wasn’t just a suggestion but an ironclad rule. Whether it was your grandparents, your teacher, or even the neighbor next door, you showed respect to those older than you. While questioning authority and challenging ideas is important, there’s still value in teaching kids to respect the wisdom and experience of older generations. It instills a sense of empathy and understanding that people who’ve been around longer might just know a thing or two about life.
6. We Had to Clean Up After Ourselves
You didn’t get to leave your mess for someone else to clean up. Whether it was your toys, dishes, or dirty clothes, if you made a mess, you cleaned it up. This rule was about responsibility and learning to care for your own space. Kids today often expect someone else to handle the cleanup, but instilling this rule early on helps build a sense of ownership, responsibility, and pride in maintaining order. Plus, it’s just good manners.
7. We Had to Wait to Leave the Dinner Table
Family dinners were a sacred time. You didn’t just eat and run. You waited for everyone to finish, signaling that the meal was about more than just food—it was about connection and respect. It taught us patience and the importance of shared family moments. In today’s world of grab-and-go meals and constant distractions, encouraging kids to sit down and engage in family time can foster a sense of togetherness and give everyone a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of life.
8. We Had to Make Our Bed Every Morning
Before you could go out and conquer the day, you had to make your bed. This wasn’t just about having a neat room—it was about starting your day with a small accomplishment that set the tone for the rest of it. Research shows that making your bed can boost productivity and help you feel more organized. Teaching kids this habit can instill a sense of discipline and help them start their day on the right foot.
9. We Had to Earn Our TV Time
Screen time was a reward, not a given. You had to finish your homework, complete your chores, or show good behavior before you could plop down in front of the TV or play video games. Today’s kids have constant access to screens, but making them earn that time could teach them that relaxation is something you enjoy after putting in the work. It also helps establish boundaries and balance in their day.
10. We Had to Ask Before Inviting Friends Over
You didn’t just bring friends home without asking your parents first. This taught us respect for family time and consideration for others. It was all about understanding that the house wasn’t just your personal playground—other people’s needs mattered too. Today’s kids might benefit from learning that asking permission isn’t about control; it’s about respect for everyone’s space and schedule.
11. We Weren’t Allowed to Talk with Our Mouth Full
Talking with your mouth full wasn’t just bad manners—it could seriously gross people out. This rule was all about showing respect at the table and being considerate of those around you. Teaching kids basic table manners today can help them develop better social skills and make shared meals more enjoyable. Plus, it’s a small step toward being more aware of how your actions affect others.
12. We Had to Stay in the Background
When grown-ups were talking, you weren’t supposed to interrupt. This taught us to respect others’ conversations and know when speaking was appropriate. It helped you understand that not everything was about you and that it was okay to listen and learn. Today’s kids could benefit from learning when to chime in and when to sit back and take things in.
13. We Had to Wait for Our Food to Digest Before Swimming
The idea that you’d get cramps and drown if you swam too soon after eating has been debunked, but the rule still made sense in a way. It taught us patience and the importance of listening to our bodies. Sometimes, you need to rest and recharge before jumping back into activity. It’s a good lesson for today’s overscheduled, constantly on-the-go kids to learn.
14. We Had to Knock Before Entering Someone’s Room
Privacy was respected in our day, and you didn’t just barge into someone’s room without knocking. This rule was about understanding boundaries and respecting personal space. In a world where privacy is often overlooked—thanks to the constant sharing of social media—teaching kids to respect each other’s space and privacy could go a long way in fostering healthy relationships.
15. We Had to Share Toys and Games
Sharing was non-negotiable. Whether it was your favorite toy or the last piece of cake, you had to learn that the world didn’t revolve around you. This rule was all about teaching kindness and cooperation. Kids today are often used to having things immediately and individually tailored to them. However, learning to share fosters empathy and generosity—two qualities we could use a lot more of in the world.
16. We Had to Have Perfect Table Manners
Blowing bubbles in your drink wasn’t just annoying—it usually led to a mess. This rule was all about respect and self-control. Sure, it seemed small, but it taught us to be more aware of how our actions affected others. Teaching kids the importance of table manners might seem outdated, but it instills a sense of responsibility for their behavior and its impact on their environment.
17. We Had to Ask Permission Before Leaving the House
This rule taught us that our parents were in charge and that there were boundaries we had to respect. You didn’t just leave the house without asking first—it was a matter of safety and respect. Today’s kids have much more freedom, but asking permission helps them understand that their actions affect others and that they’re part of a bigger family dynamic.
18. We Had to Behave (Silently) in the Car
Parents expected peace and quiet while driving—no questions, no complaints. While today’s parents might have a more lenient approach (thanks, tablets,s, and car TVs), there’s something to be said for a little quiet time. Learning patience and how to occupy yourself without constant entertainment is a lost skill today’s kids could benefit from.
19. We Had to Try Our Best in School
School wasn’t just about getting good grades—it was about effort. “Do your best” was the mantra, which often meant pushing through challenges. Today’s culture focuses heavily on results, but teaching kids to value effort over perfection is a lesson that builds resilience and a healthy approach to failure. Regardless of the outcome, encouraging kids to keep trying is a life skill that never goes out of style.
20. We Had to Keep Quiet in Public
Being quiet and respectful was non-negotiable, whether at church, a wedding, or a school assembly. This rule taught kids how to behave in formal settings and respect moments that weren’t about them. Today’s kids might struggle with this, as they are often glued to their devices. However, learning to be quiet and respectful in certain situations is a valuable lesson in self-discipline and social awareness.
21. We Had to Write Thank-You Notes
Remember being forced to write a thank-you note for every birthday gift or holiday present? While it seemed like a hassle, it taught us to show gratitude and appreciate what we were given. Today’s kids can shoot off a quick text or emoji, but bringing back the handwritten note could help reinforce the importance of expressing gratitude meaningfully.
22. We Had to Respect “Quiet Time”
When your parents declared it was “quiet time,” you listened. This often meant no loud noises, no distractions, and a few peaceful moments for everyone to recharge. In today’s hyper-connected world, teaching kids the value of quiet time could help them (and the rest of us) find a little more calm and focus.
The post 22 Childhood Rules We Dutifully Followed That Kids Today Will Never Get (or Follow) appeared first on Bolde.