Tag: babies
Parenting in the 1970s
I’ve been catching up with old friends lately. We’ve reminisced about our own childhoods and growing up as babies and toddlers in the late 1970s.
It seems we’re from an entirely different age when compared to families of today. And it’s not just the fashion of the 1970s that stands us apart.
Parenting styles have changed dramatically over the last few decades.
Back in the day we were allowed to play in the garden and run freely around the streets.
My friends and I would go down the lane to a nearby river for a dip on hot summer days. When swimming wasn’t an option we’d run amok across farmer’s fields where grazing bulls would stir at our laughter and foolishness.
Children today are brought up with their parent’s keeping a much closer eye on their whereabouts. This is aided by technology keeping communication between parents and children more accessible.
But by limiting the amount of freedom our children have are we detrimentally stunting their ability to grow and learn for themselves?
As for all of the baby paraphernalia we can’t live without, there’s a distinct gap between then and now.
Who’d ever heard of a car seat for a baby or child, let alone a seatbelt? These days you’ll be arrested if your baby or child isn’t strapped safely in a car.
Baby monitors? If baby cried the parents would hear and could go and check on them.
Did anyone use sun cream to protect baby’s delicate skin? Today we’re advised by leading health bodies to not expose babies under the age of 6 months to the sun.
Stair gates? Baby learnt how to climb up and down stairs.
Had parents in the 1970s even heard of the things today’s parents simply take for granted?
- BPA free plastic bottles and cups
- Non-toxic paints used on children’s toys
- Safety standards in playgrounds
- Baby and toddler products conforming to stringent regulations
- Organic formula milk and baby food
What are your views on the style of parenting in the 1970s compared with today?
photo credit: H is for Home via photopin cc
Meeting Baby Amber
To ensure the household was no longer contagious we had to wait an excruciating eight days before we could safely see my sister Alicia and meet her beautiful baby Amber.
It’s been five years since Alicia and I were last together and in that time we’ve both been pregnant and had our beautiful daughters. There’s eight months between Imogen and Amber and it’s great having them so close in age. Plus we get to share parenting dilemmas and tips!
We couldn’t believe how well Imogen and Amber got on. From the very beginning they took a shine to one another and it wasn’t long before they were giggling and sharing toys.
Imogen and Amber meet for the first time
Imogen imitates Amber ‘walking’ on her knees
Baby cousins happily playing together
Merry Christmas!
I can’t believe how quickly Christmas has come around this year. Have you noticed time fly?
Imogen’s so excited about Christmas and has been an angel at leaving the presents wrapped under the Christmas tree. Though her inquisitive nature has led to present shaking and I’ve become aware of little pieces of torn wrapping paper scattered around our apartment, I simply love her curiosity!
On Sunday Imogen and I set off for New Zealand to see my family. It’s an adventure and journey I’m incredibly excited about and yet rather unprepared for as it’s just Imogen and I travelling.
Hubby couldn’t take time off work so we’ll be apart for 8 weeks which is a huge amount of time but one in which Imogen will be spending with her doting grandparents and wider family.
Aside from regular skyping, my parents haven’t seen Imogen in almost a year. Babies grow up fast and my parents love Imogen immensely. They’re counting down the hours to seeing her.
My sister will be meeting Imogen for the first time and we’ll be meeting her baby, Amber. Everyday Imogen says ‘baby Amber’ and tells me she wants to eat, play, bath and walk with her. Imogen’s the youngest in our NCT group so it’ll be amazing to see her with her baby cousin.
There’s nothing like family and I can’t wait to see mine.
Enjoy the festive season with your family. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas!
