Parents of the ’80s Were Doing Just Fine, and Today’s Parents Are Too

home insemination Kit

I came into this world in 1975, and by the time I hit seven, my dad was chasing home runs on an adult baseball league. My sisters and I would tag along, completely oblivious to the game, armed with nothing but a Dr. Pepper Lip Smacker and a pocket full of candy. Mom would hand us a few bucks for soda and ring pops, and we would embark on our own mini-adventures, leaving her in the dark about our escapades.

Summer days were all about freedom—no camps, no strict schedules. Just sun-kissed skin, sandy toes, and a pit stop at McDonald’s to cap off a day at the beach. I can still picture my mom pulling into the drive-thru in our big blue Caprice Classic, me sliding across the seat without a seatbelt, excited for some fries and a Hi-C. Those afternoons were spent outdoors, swinging on tires and dodging mosquitoes, while we were cheerfully told, “Go outside and play!”

Homework? Not in my vocabulary. Back then, if you played a sport, it was straight after school—no frantic scheduling. My parents were more focused on the evening news than on managing our calendars, with my dad sipping Budweiser and my mom enjoying her Tab.

As a teenager, my friends and I would ride the bus home, plopping down in front of Nickelodeon for marathon sessions of cartoons, instant ramen, and prank calls. I would spend hours on the phone, twirling the cord as we chatted about school outfits and the latest gossip. Those days hold a special place in my heart, and I often find myself wishing to recreate that nostalgia with my own kids.

While I certainly believe in slathering on sunscreen and encouraging my kids to pursue their passions, I also want them to relish the same carefree experiences I had. So we’ve struck a balance. Sure, I let them indulge in sugary cereal for breakfast, and on warm afternoons, my son rides his bike around town with friends, often out of my sight but connected through technology.

The aroma of McDonald’s still evokes those long-ago summer days, and I take my kids there a couple of times a month, especially when my daughter craves ramen when she’s feeling under the weather. Still, I can’t help but feel a twinge of guilt when I hear our neighbors’ kids have never even heard of a Happy Meal, or when their friends are too caught up in extracurriculars to join for a playdate.

Some days are filled with free-spirited outdoor adventures, while others are packed with back-to-back activities. I cherish both types of days. My kids are gaining experiences I never had the chance to explore, and sometimes, I simply crave the smell of fries mixed with soft serve, so we hit the drive-thru for a treat. Honestly, I think I enjoy it more than they do!

I don’t believe today’s parents are doing it wrong, nor do I think parents from the ’80s had it all figured out. Every generation has its own style of parenting, and I’ve chosen to blend the best of both worlds. You can create beautiful memories while juggling a busy schedule. Just because your kids aren’t splashing barefoot under the garden hose doesn’t mean they’re missing out. And occasionally letting them play outside until the streetlights come on or treating them to ramen doesn’t equate to neglect.

The timeless truth remains: moderation is key. So pass me the Lucky Charms. Tomorrow, I’ll be roasting an organic chicken between my daughter’s lacrosse practice and my son’s coding club. For our family, this is the perfect recipe for happiness.

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Summary

Parenting styles evolve, but the essence of creating memories remains constant. This piece reflects on the carefree childhood of the ’80s while emphasizing the importance of balance in parenting today. Whether it’s indulging in nostalgic treats or encouraging outdoor play, the key is moderation.