As we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, let’s explore some of the things that defined the childhood of Generation X – those born between 1965 and 1980. These experiences, from lenient parenting to a world less dominated by technology, might seem alien to the children of today, and some would be outright forbidden!
1. Freewheeling Outdoor Play
Ask any Gen Xer about their childhood, and they’ll likely wax lyrical about the hours they spent playing outside without a chaperone. Back then, children would leave home in the morning and return at dusk, with no one batting an eye. They had the freedom to explore their neighborhood, make up their own games, and learn from their experiences – a stark contrast to today’s highly supervised playdates.
And let’s not forget the lack of safety gear. Helmets, knee pads, elbow guards? Those were virtually unheard of. Children would hop on their bikes, skateboards, or roller skates and zoom around with the wind in their hair and not a care in the world. Today’s safety standards would have had a heart attack!
2. Lax Rules About Smoking
Smoking was far more prevalent during the Gen X era. It was not unusual to see people lighting up in public places like restaurants, buses, and even airplanes. Today, with the widespread knowledge about the dangers of second-hand smoke, not to mention strict smoking bans, such a scenario seems unthinkable.
Moreover, back in the day, the restrictions on minors buying cigarettes were not as rigid as they are now. Instances of teenagers walking into a store and buying a pack of cigarettes without showing any ID were not uncommon. Thankfully, this has changed significantly over the years, with stringent laws now in place to prevent underage smoking.
3. Casual Parenting
Gen X parents often had a more laid-back approach to parenting compared to today’s parents. They didn’t hover over their children constantly, but rather allowed them to make mistakes and learn from them. This style of parenting, now often referred to as “free-range parenting,” is a far cry from the helicopter parenting we often see today.
Physical discipline was also more accepted back then. While it’s a controversial topic with a spectrum of opinions, there’s no denying that attitudes towards physical discipline have changed over the years, with many considering it unacceptable today.
4. Unrestricted Media Consumption
There was a time when children could flip through channels and stumble upon all kinds of content, with fewer restrictions on what they could watch on television and in movies. Parental controls and content ratings were not as common as they are now, where parents can restrict access to explicit content on platforms like Netflix or YouTube.
Content warnings for explicit or disturbing content were also not as prevalent. Today, warnings accompany potentially triggering content across various media, helping parents and viewers decide what’s appropriate to watch.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.
