Things We Did Growing Up That Are Now Considered Not Okay

One of my all-time favorite memories from growing up was riding in the bed of my dad's truck and driving through Fort Collins. Looking back now, I get sad because in this day and age, that would be considered dangerous, and my dad may have even gone to the pokey.

It got me thinking about what things that used to be common that are now considered not okay.

So let's reminisce about simpler times.

What used to be common is now not okay

Bike helmets are a must in 2026. In the 80s and 90s, they definitely weren't. I don't even remember seeing a friend or any of my classmates wearing one. I'm not even sure you could find one to buy.
Much like riding in the bed of a truck, I also have fond memories of riding on the fold-out tailgate. All over town, and no one even blinked an eye. Could you imagine doing that today?
When I was a kid, there was nothing fresher or crisper than water straight from the hose. My mom made us play outside all day in the summer because she didn't want us running in and out of the house. I used to think that was mean, but as an adult with children now, I sooooo get it. So naturally, if you got thirsty, you went straight to the hose. Now I often drink bottled water, which childhood Sadie would never believe.
As the youngest of four, I remember my mom piling us into the old caravan. Seatbelts? Non-existent. And it's crazy to think cops didn't pull people over for this offense. We rode free and even crawled over the seats while the van was in motion. Wild.