The 1970s were a decade of change and liberation, but also a time when certain practices and social norms were quite different from what we see today. For mothers during this era, parenting wasn’t always about the latest gadgets or following every new parenting trend—it was about making do with what you had and navigating through a world that was rapidly evolving. While many of these practices were considered normal at the time, today they might raise a few eyebrows. Let’s take a look at 15 things moms did in the ’70s that would be considered shocking by modern standards.

Leaving Kids Home Alone

In the ’70s, it wasn’t uncommon for moms to leave their young children at home unsupervised while they ran errands or attended to other tasks. Whether it was for a quick trip to the grocery store or an afternoon at work, many parents felt that it was okay to leave their kids—sometimes as young as 7 or 8—home alone. Today, parents are much more cautious, and leaving kids alone for extended periods is usually discouraged due to safety concerns and the availability of modern alternatives like after-school programs.

Smoking While Pregnant

In the 1970s, smoking during pregnancy was often seen as no big deal. Many moms smoked while expecting, and some even continued after giving birth. Doctors didn’t have the same level of understanding about the risks of smoking during pregnancy as they do today, and it wasn’t uncommon to see women lighting up while in the hospital or even holding their newborn. Today, smoking during pregnancy is widely recognized as dangerous, with serious health risks for both the mother and baby, including low birth weight, premature delivery, and developmental issues.

Homemade Baby Food in Jars

Before the advent of organic baby food, many moms in the ’70s made homemade baby food using basic ingredients like mashed peas or carrots, and then packed them into jars. While it may seem simple, this homemade approach was sometimes made in large batches and stored in old baby food jars. Today, baby food is often more regulated, with many parents opting for organic, store-bought options, or making food from scratch using specialized baby food processors.

Letting Kids Play Outside Until Dark

In the 1970s, it was common for kids to leave the house in the morning and not return until the streetlights came on—sometimes even staying outside until dark. Mothers didn’t constantly hover over their children’s every move. While this might have been seen as giving kids the freedom to explore, today’s parents are more concerned about safety. Issues such as stranger danger and traffic hazards, along with the rise of screen time, have changed the way kids play today, with more structured activities and less outdoor freedom.

Using Disposable Diapers (But Not Very Often)

Disposable diapers were invented in the 1960s but didn’t really become widespread until the ’70s. While modern disposable diapers are designed to be super absorbent and convenient, they weren’t as advanced in the ’70s. Many moms still used cloth diapers for the sake of cost-effectiveness and the environment, but disposable ones started to take over. Today, cloth diapers have made a comeback as parents look for eco-friendly alternatives, though disposables still dominate the market.

Giving Kids Pop Tarts for Breakfast

In the ’70s, Pop Tarts were an easy, go-to breakfast choice for busy moms. Kids would eat them right out of the box or pop them in the toaster for a quick and sweet breakfast. While many parents today try to serve their children healthier options like smoothies or oatmeal, back in the ’70s, sugary breakfast treats like Pop Tarts were often seen as a convenient solution. Today, parents are more focused on limiting sugary cereals and snacks in favor of whole foods and nutritious breakfasts.

Drinking Alcohol in Front of Kids

It was pretty common for moms to drink alcoholic beverages in front of their children in the ’70s, sometimes even before or during family dinners. Casual drinking wasn’t viewed as a big deal, and many moms would have a cocktail or glass of wine while their kids played around them. Today, many parents are more cautious about their drinking habits in front of children, focusing on setting a good example and moderating alcohol consumption around impressionable young minds.

Using Baby Powder All Over the Body

In the ’70s, baby powder was used by moms not just for diaper changes but also as a general body powder for babies and even for adults. Moms would apply it liberally to their children after baths to keep them dry and fresh. Today, baby powder is used less frequently due to concerns about its possible link to respiratory issues and potential cancer risks from talc, leading many parents to opt for natural alternatives such as cornstarch or simply using lotion.

Homemade Halloween Costumes

In the ’70s, Halloween was a time for creativity. Many moms crafted homemade costumes for their children using materials from around the house—whether it was a sheet to make a ghost or cardboard to create a robot. While DIY costumes are still popular today, they are often inspired by pop culture and ready-made materials. Today’s kids might choose a store-bought costume that’s trending, while back then, homemade costumes were a cherished tradition of resourcefulness and imagination.

Not Using Car Seats for Kids

In the 1970s, the idea of using car seats for children wasn’t nearly as widespread as it is today. Moms would often place their children in the front seat, sometimes without any type of seatbelt at all. Today, car seat laws are much stricter, and parents are required to use car seats and boosters that are specifically designed for their child’s age and size, making child car safety a top priority.

Leaving Children in the Car

In the ’70s, it wasn’t uncommon for moms to leave their children in the car while they ran quick errands or made stops at the store. The general attitude was that the car was a safe, enclosed space. Today, leaving children unattended in a car, even for a short time, is viewed as incredibly dangerous and illegal in many states due to risks such as heatstroke, car theft, or child abduction.

Not Having the Internet for Research

In the ’70s, if moms wanted parenting advice or information, they had to rely on books, magazines, or the guidance of trusted friends and family. There was no internet, so research meant finding a local library or asking for advice from neighbors. Today, parents have access to an overwhelming amount of information online, including parenting blogs, social media groups, and countless resources, which has transformed how moms seek advice and support.

Releasing Kids to Play Without Supervision

Back in the ’70s, kids were often given free rein to explore their neighborhoods, parks, and even public spaces without any direct supervision. While this may sound surprising in today’s world of over-protective parenting, back then, it was normal for children to wander. Today, most parents hover closely, often opting for playdates, after-school programs, or digital play options rather than allowing kids to roam freely as they did decades ago.

Riding in the Back of Pickup Trucks

In the ’70s, it wasn’t unusual for families to let their kids ride in the back of pickup trucks. Whether heading to a family outing or running errands, kids would happily jump into the open bed of a truck and travel short distances. Today, safety laws and concerns about potential accidents have made this practice illegal in most places, as the risk of injury or death is far greater than many realized at the time.

Making Family Meals from Scratch Daily

In the 1970s, moms were often expected to make family meals from scratch every day, and convenience foods like frozen dinners or take-out were much less common than they are now. Most families sat down to home-cooked meals, often made with fresh ingredients. Today, while many moms still cook from scratch, there’s a huge market for pre-prepared meals and fast food, making it easier to grab a meal without much effort.

The 1970s were a very different time for moms, with practices that, while common then, would be seen as shocking or even reckless today. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come in terms of parenting practices, technology, and social awareness. But at the heart of it, every mom—then and now—was just doing the best she could with the tools and knowledge available at the time.