The 1970s were a colorful, carefree time when families embraced a very different kind of lifestyle. From unbelted car rides to unsupervised play and questionable toys, the decade was full of habits that modern safety standards would never allow. Looking back, it’s amazing what passed for “normal” back then. While these practices might trigger a gasp today, they were once just part of growing up. Here’s a nostalgic (and slightly shocking) look at 14 things families did in the ’70s that would be banned—or at least strongly discouraged—today.

Riding in Cars Without Seatbelts

In the ’70s, it wasn’t unusual for kids to bounce around in the backseat—or even lie across the rear window shelf—without a seatbelt in sight. Car seats were optional, and many vehicles didn’t even come with backseat restraints. Safety just wasn’t the priority it is today. Today, laws require seatbelts for all passengers, and child restraints are mandatory for young kids.

Smoking Indoors and Around Kids

Parents smoking at the dinner table, in the car, or even inside a nursery was nothing unusual. The risks of secondhand smoke weren’t well known or widely acknowledged. Cigarette ads were everywhere, even targeting moms. Now, smoking around children is not only frowned upon but restricted or banned in many public and private spaces.

Letting Kids Roam the Neighborhood Unsupervised

Children in the ’70s had much more freedom to explore. They’d leave the house in the morning and not return until dinner, with little to no adult supervision. Parents trusted that the community would watch out for everyone. Today, such freedom might lead to calls to child protective services for neglect.

No Helmets for Biking or Skating

Biking, roller skating, or even skateboarding was all done bare-headed. Helmets weren’t widely used—or even available for kids. Injuries were common, but no one thought twice about the risk. These days, not wearing a helmet is considered a major safety violation.

Riding in the Back of Pickup Trucks

Hopping into the open bed of a pickup truck for a joyride was a childhood thrill in the ’70s. It was often the norm on camping trips, farm visits, or small-town outings. No seatbelts, no enclosures—just wind and bumps. Today, it’s illegal in many places and considered highly dangerous.

Playing with Real Tools and Fireworks

It was not uncommon for kids to handle sharp tools, pocket knives, or even light fireworks unsupervised. Parents believed in “learning through experience,” even if it meant a few burns or cuts. Firecrackers, sparklers, and bottle rockets were handed out like candy on the Fourth of July. These days, such activities require adult supervision or are banned altogether.

Leaving Kids in the Car Alone

Parents often left their children in the car while they ran errands, sometimes even for long stretches. Windows up or down, no one gave it a second thought. The mindset was that kids would be fine for a few minutes. Now, it’s illegal in many places and seen as a major child safety concern.

Drinking and Driving Was More Common

Drunk driving was certainly frowned upon, but enforcement was lax compared to today. Having “a few drinks” before getting behind the wheel was often excused or ignored. It was a cultural norm that prioritized convenience over safety. Today’s zero-tolerance policies and strict laws have changed that completely.

Using Unsafe Playground Equipment

Playgrounds in the ’70s were made of metal, set over concrete, and often had towering slides and spinning contraptions. Safety padding was rare, and supervision was minimal. Falls and injuries were common, but that was just considered part of childhood. Modern playgrounds are now designed with strict safety standards and soft landing surfaces.

Corporal Punishment in Schools

Spanking or paddling by teachers or principals was legally allowed and widely practiced. Many parents supported the idea of school discipline through physical means. Today, corporal punishment is banned in most schools and is a hot-button topic in parenting and education debates.

Unsafe Toys and No Warning Labels

Toys in the ’70s often had sharp edges, small detachable parts, or toxic materials. Warning labels were virtually nonexistent, and recalls were rare. Popular toys like lawn darts or chemistry sets came with serious risks. Today’s toys undergo rigorous safety testing and must meet strict standards.

No Sunscreen and Minimal Skin Protection

Spending all day in the sun without sunscreen was completely normal. Kids would often get sunburned, peel, and then go back out again. Protective clothing and SPF were barely a consideration. Today, skin protection is a top priority, especially with increased awareness about skin cancer.

Letting Babies Sleep on Their Stomachs

In the ’70s, pediatricians often recommended placing babies on their stomachs to sleep. It was believed to reduce choking risks. However, we now know that back-sleeping significantly lowers the risk of SIDS. Modern guidelines strongly advise against stomach sleeping for infants.

Hitchhiking as a Normal Travel Option

Hitchhiking wasn’t just for adults—it was sometimes a way teens or even younger people got around. It was viewed as an adventurous and practical way to travel. Parents didn’t always object, especially in smaller towns. Today, it’s considered dangerous and strongly discouraged for safety reasons.