Raising Kids: Generational differences

I once again had the privilege of interviewing my Dad and my husband. This time I asked them questions about the differences in raising children now versus in the 1980s and 1990s. 

Q1: What was it like raising kids in the 80’s and 90’s?  What is it like raising kids today?

Dad: I think it was easy compared to now. The demands weren’t like they are now. Kids asked for things but knew they weren’t always going to get it. 

My husband: Raising kids now is exciting because there are lots of fun things to do, but it is also scary. 

Q2:What were the safety concerns now and back then?

Dad: Back then the safety concerns were when your children walked to school, drugs; the concerns were there but just not as prevalent as today. Dad said he thought us kids were safe as long as we used common sense. 

My husband: We live in the country, so my husband said the concern about transportation. The other major concern is technology. Technology can be both good and bad. 

Q3: What did your kids do for fun without technology?  How do you manage your kids and all the technology?

Dad: My kids and I went fishing, hunting, played in the yard, played cards, went camping, and we worked together. 

My husband: With all the technology the best way I found is the just limit the tech time. 

Q4: Are there any skills/life lessons that are being lost and not taught to our children due to the advances?

Dad: The biggest life lesson being lost is a great work ethic and when you work to take pride in your work. 

My husband: The ability to just sit and visit. Now days a conversation is usually text messaging. 

Raising kids whether it was in the ’80s and ’90s or you are raising kids today is always a challenge. But with God’s guidance, it is fun and rewarding. If you missed my first interview on Raising only Girls be sure to check it out.   

Contributed by Carrie Guthmiller