Parents' Permissive Actions That We Now Realize Were Not Age-Appropriate
As a 1980s and early 90s kid, the world felt much different back then compared to today. What was deemed age-appropriate then is vastly different from what it is now. Even my parents generation held different views on what activities were suitable for kids. Looking back, there were several instances where my parents allowed me to do things that, by today's standards, would be considered not age-appropriate. Let's explore some of these.
Exploring Gory Horror Films at a Young Age
The 80s and early 90s were a time when video rental stores were plentiful, and there weren't any restrictions on what films I could rent. My fascination with gory horror films knew no bounds. I would watch these films night after night, completely absorbed by the graphic violence and chilling atmospheres. While this might seem excessive today, at the time, it was perfectly fine. Video stores offered a wide variety of movies, and my parents trusted me to choose appropriate content without guidance. This experience has made me realize that what was considered safe entertainment back then might not be suitable for younger children now.
Braving the Streets of NYC
In the early 90s, walking around New York City on my own was a common occurrence. I would leave the suburban home in the morning with a packed lunch and venture into the bustling heart of the city. I carried a canteen of water and had a dime for a phone call if I needed one. This independence might shock modern parents, as it now raises red flags about safety and supervision. While I am grateful for these experiences, I can't help but feel a bit embarrassed looking back. It's amazing I survived without any incidents—though it's important to note that times have changed, and what was considered acceptable then is no longer viewed the same way.
Alcohol Consumption at a Young Age
One of the most striking examples of permissive parenting was when I, a 12-year-old only in primary school, was allowed to drink more than 12 beers in a single night. This is something that would be considered outrageous today. I remember the celebration where I consumed bottle after bottle until I got incredibly drunk. The incident taught me an important lesson about the importance of moderation and listening to others. While I proud myself on being the last man standing during drinking sessions in my 20s, I now limit my alcohol intake to occasional social occasions.
Reading Literature Not Intended for Children
Another recurring theme was the permissiveness regarding my reading material. My grandmother, a retired middle school teacher, was a huge advocate for reading anything that captured my interest. She believed that children should read whatever they wanted, including adult literature. In middle school, I read classics like The Decameron and The Canterbury Tales. Even as a child, I found some of these books challenging to understand, but they helped instill a love for literature that has lasted a lifetime.
Lessons Learned
Reflecting on these experiences, it's clear that while my parents' freedom and trust greatly contributed to my development, some of these actions might not be considered appropriate today. However, they also taught me valuable lessons and helped me grow into a more responsible adult. The most important lesson is the value of moderation and understanding that what is acceptable for a child today may have been more lenient in the past. As parents, it's crucial to balance the trust and independence we give to our children with the need to keep them safe and appropriately aligned with modern standards.