15+ Things 60s Kids Did That Would Never Fly Today

In the 1960s, it was common for children to ride in the back of pickup trucks, often without any safety restraints. This practice was seen as a fun adventure, with kids enjoying the wind in their hair and the thrill of being outdoors. Parents often thought nothing of it, viewing it as a rite of passage. Today, such behavior is considered dangerous and illegal in many places, reflecting a significant shift in safety awareness and regulations.

Back in the 60s, it was not unusual for children to sit on their mother’s lap while driving. This practice was often seen as a bonding experience, with kids feeling secure in their parent’s embrace. However, this lack of proper safety measures would be unthinkable today, as modern car safety standards emphasize the importance of using appropriate car seats and seat belts to protect children during travel.

Metal lawn darts were a popular outdoor game in the 60s, often played during family gatherings and barbecues. These heavy, pointed darts could cause serious injuries, yet children would throw them with little regard for safety. The thrill of competition and the excitement of the game overshadowed any potential risks. Nowadays, lawn darts have been banned in many places due to safety concerns, replaced by softer, safer alternatives.

In the 1960s, children often rode their bikes without helmets, believing that the joy of riding outweighed any potential risks. The freedom of biking through neighborhoods and parks was cherished, and safety gear was rarely considered necessary. Today, however, wearing helmets is a standard practice, as awareness of head injuries and the importance of protective gear has increased significantly, reflecting a cultural shift towards prioritizing safety.

Hitchhiking was a common practice among kids in the 60s, often seen as an adventurous way to travel. Children would stand by the roadside, thumb out, waiting for a ride from passing cars. This practice fostered a sense of independence and adventure, but it also posed significant risks. In today’s world, hitchhiking is largely viewed as unsafe, with parents discouraging it due to concerns about stranger danger and personal safety.

In the 60s, drinking from garden hoses was a common and refreshing way for kids to quench their thirst during hot summer days. The water was often cool and tasted like summer, with no concerns about contamination. Today, however, many people are wary of drinking from hoses due to potential health risks, reflecting a growing awareness of hygiene and safety in everyday practices.

Eating raw cookie dough was a beloved childhood treat in the 60s, with kids often sneaking spoonfuls straight from the mixing bowl. The joy of indulging in this sweet, creamy mixture was a rite of passage, with little thought given to the risks of consuming raw eggs. Nowadays, concerns about food safety have led to warnings against eating raw cookie dough, changing the way children experience this classic treat.

In the 1960s, it was common for young children, even those in kindergarten, to walk to school alone. This practice instilled a sense of independence and responsibility in kids, as they navigated their neighborhoods. Parents felt comfortable allowing their children this freedom, trusting their ability to handle the journey. Today, however, many parents are hesitant to let their children walk alone due to safety concerns, reflecting a shift in societal norms.

Children in the 60s often played outside until the streetlights came on, a signal that it was time to head home. This freedom allowed kids to explore their neighborhoods, engage in imaginative play, and socialize with friends. The absence of structured activities meant that outdoor play was a significant part of childhood. Today, many children have more scheduled activities and less unstructured outdoor time, reflecting changes in parenting styles and societal expectations.

Shooting BB guns was a common pastime for children in the 60s, often done without adult supervision. Kids would practice their aim and enjoy the thrill of target shooting, viewing it as a rite of passage. However, the potential for accidents and injuries has led to stricter regulations and a more cautious approach to firearms today, with parents emphasizing safety and supervision.

In the 1960s, children often found adventure in climbing construction sites, viewing them as playgrounds filled with excitement. The thrill of exploring unfinished buildings and navigating obstacles was a common weekend activity. Today, such behavior is discouraged due to safety concerns, as construction sites are recognized as hazardous environments that pose significant risks to children.

Jumping off roofs into piles of leaves was a popular childhood activity in the 60s, with kids relishing the thrill of the jump and the soft landing. This playful risk-taking was often seen as harmless fun. However, today’s parents are more cautious, recognizing the potential for injury and discouraging such dangerous stunts in favor of safer play options.

In the 1960s, children sometimes played with mercury that spilled from broken thermometers, fascinated by its shiny, liquid form. This practice was not understood to be dangerous at the time, as the health risks associated with mercury exposure were not widely known. Today, such behavior is unthinkable, as awareness of toxic substances has increased significantly, leading to strict regulations regarding hazardous materials.

In the 60s, it was common for children to buy firecrackers at local corner stores, often using their allowance to purchase them for celebrations. The thrill of lighting firecrackers and watching them explode was a cherished part of childhood. Today, however, many places have strict laws regulating the sale and use of fireworks, reflecting a growing concern for safety and the potential for accidents.

In the 1960s, it was not uncommon for children to ride their bikes barefoot, feeling the wind on their feet as they pedaled through neighborhoods. This carefree attitude towards safety was a hallmark of childhood during that era. Today, however, parents often encourage children to wear shoes while biking, recognizing the importance of foot protection and the potential for injuries.

Trampolines were a popular backyard attraction in the 60s, often used without safety nets or strict rules. Children would bounce and perform tricks, enjoying the thrill of jumping high into the air. However, the lack of safety measures led to numerous injuries, prompting a shift in how trampolines are viewed today, with many families opting for safer alternatives or strict supervision.

In the 1960s, it was not unusual for children to drive tractors and other farm equipment, often learning the ropes from their parents. This hands-on experience was seen as a valuable part of growing up on a farm, instilling a sense of responsibility and work ethic. Today, however, there are stricter regulations regarding the operation of heavy machinery by minors, reflecting increased safety concerns.

In the 60s, many toys were painted with lead-based paint, and children often chewed on them without any awareness of the dangers. This practice was common, as the health risks associated with lead exposure were not well understood at the time. Today, there are strict regulations regarding toy safety and paint materials, reflecting a significant shift in public health awareness.

Children in the 1960s often engaged in the exciting hobby of launching model rockets in their backyards. This activity was seen as a fun way to learn about science and engineering, with little regard for safety precautions. Today, while model rocketry is still popular, there are more regulations and safety guidelines in place to ensure that launches are conducted safely and responsibly.

In the 60s, children often played war games with realistic-looking toy guns, engaging in imaginative play that mimicked the action of war movies. This type of play was seen as harmless fun, with little concern for the implications of using toy weapons. Today, however, there is a greater awareness of the impact of such play on children’s perceptions of violence, leading to more cautious attitudes among parents.

In the 1960s, children often roamed the woods for hours, exploring nature and engaging in imaginative play without the aid of GPS or modern technology. This freedom allowed kids to develop a strong sense of adventure and independence. Today, many parents are more cautious, often keeping a closer eye on their children’s whereabouts and encouraging them to stay within safe boundaries.

During the 60s, children often received unwrapped homemade treats while trick-or-treating, with neighbors offering baked goods and candies without concern. This practice fostered a sense of community and trust among neighbors. Today, however, parents are more cautious about the safety of treats, often opting for pre-packaged candies to avoid potential health risks associated with homemade items.

In the 1960s, it was not uncommon for children to take unmarked pills from the family medicine cabinet, often without understanding the potential dangers. This practice was largely due to a lack of awareness about medication safety. Today, parents are more vigilant about keeping medications secure and educating their children about the risks associated with taking unknown substances.

In the 60s, children often swam in ponds and lakes that may not have been safe or clean, viewing these natural bodies of water as playgrounds. The thrill of swimming in nature outweighed any concerns about water quality. Today, however, there is a greater awareness of water safety and health risks, leading many parents to discourage swimming in unmonitored or questionable locations.

Carnival rides in the 1960s were often seen as thrilling attractions, even if they appeared to be held together by duct tape. Children would eagerly line up for rides, trusting that the operators had ensured their safety. Today, there is a heightened awareness of ride safety, with stricter regulations and inspections in place to protect riders from potential hazards.

In the 60s, children often played on steel playgrounds that absorbed heat from the sun, leading to scorching hot surfaces. Despite the discomfort, kids would climb, slide, and swing without concern for burns. Today, playground safety standards have evolved, with a focus on using safer materials and providing shaded areas to protect children from extreme temperatures.

Hitchhiking to baseball practice was a common practice for kids in the 60s, often seen as a fun and adventurous way to get to games. Children would stand by the roadside, hoping for a ride from friendly drivers. Today, this practice is largely discouraged due to safety concerns, with parents opting for more secure transportation methods for their children.

In the 1960s, it was not uncommon for children to drink whole milk straight from the cow, experiencing the freshness of farm life. This practice was a part of rural living, with kids enjoying the taste of unprocessed milk. Today, however, concerns about food safety and hygiene have led to a preference for pasteurized milk, reflecting changes in food production and consumption.

In the 60s, home economics classes often used asbestos-lined oven mitts, believed to provide excellent heat resistance. At the time, the dangers of asbestos exposure were not well understood, and students used these mitts without concern. Today, awareness of the health risks associated with asbestos has led to the removal of such materials from educational settings, prioritizing student safety.

Children in the 1960s often received chemistry sets that contained real chemicals, allowing them to conduct experiments and explore scientific concepts. This hands-on learning experience was exciting, but it also posed significant risks. Today, many chemistry sets are designed with safety in mind, using non-toxic materials and emphasizing safe practices to protect young scientists.

In the 60s, children often sat in the 'way back' of station wagons, enjoying the view and the thrill of being in the rear-facing seats. This practice was seen as a fun way to travel, with little regard for safety. Today, however, there are stricter regulations regarding passenger safety in vehicles, leading to a decline in this practice.

TV dinners were a popular meal option in the 1960s, often served in aluminum trays that could be heated in the oven. Children enjoyed the convenience and novelty of these meals, which were often marketed as a fun dining experience. Today, there is a greater awareness of nutrition and food packaging safety, leading to changes in how meals are prepared and consumed.

In the 60s, many children chewed tobacco, often emulating their favorite baseball players who were known for the habit. This practice was seen as a rite of passage, with little understanding of the health risks involved. Today, there is a much greater awareness of the dangers of tobacco use, leading to efforts to discourage children from adopting such habits.

Clackers were a popular toy in the 1960s, consisting of two glass balls connected by a string. Children would swing them back and forth, enjoying the sound and motion. However, the risk of shattering and injury was significant, leading to their eventual ban. Today, parents are more cautious about the toys they allow their children to play with, prioritizing safety.

In the 1960s, children often ran behind DDT spray trucks during mosquito control efforts, viewing it as a fun and adventurous activity. The dangers of DDT exposure were not well understood at the time, and kids enjoyed the thrill of the moment. Today, awareness of the health risks associated with pesticides has led to a significant change in how such activities are perceived.

In the 60s, children often drank soda sweetened with real sugar, enjoying the taste without the scrutiny of nutritional labels. This practice was common, with little concern for health implications. Today, there is a greater awareness of the effects of sugar consumption, leading to changes in beverage formulations and labeling practices to inform consumers about their choices.

In the 1960s, children often used tin cans and sharp tools in arts and crafts projects, embracing creativity and resourcefulness. This hands-on approach allowed for unique creations, but it also posed safety risks. Today, parents and educators are more cautious, opting for safer materials and tools to ensure that children can express their creativity without unnecessary hazards.

Slip 'N Slides were a popular summer activity in the 60s, often set up on concrete surfaces. Children would slide down the plastic surface, enjoying the thrill of speed and water. However, the risk of injury from hard surfaces was significant, leading to a decline in this practice. Today, parents are more cautious about where and how children play, prioritizing safety in outdoor activities.

In the 1960s, children often trusted every neighbor’s house as a safe place to play and seek help. This sense of community fostered strong relationships and a feeling of security. Today, however, parents are more cautious, often teaching their children to be wary of strangers and to seek help only from trusted individuals, reflecting changes in societal attitudes towards safety.

In the 1960s, kids often built homemade go-karts using scrap materials, embracing creativity and resourcefulness. These makeshift vehicles, often lacking brakes, provided thrilling rides down hills and driveways. The excitement of racing with friends outweighed any safety concerns. Today, such activities are viewed with caution, as parents prioritize safety and often discourage children from engaging in potentially dangerous DIY projects.