Growing up in the ’70s meant living by a set of household rules that shaped your daily life in ways you might not think about today. These rules were often strict, sometimes strange, but always meant to keep things running smoothly and teach important lessons.
If you were a kid in the ’70s, you would recognize the unspoken codes that guided behavior, family interactions, and even how you handled neighbors or strangers. These rules created a unique structure for childhood, blending freedom with clear boundaries you had to respect.
Be home before the streetlights come on
You knew exactly when it was time to stop playing outside—right before the streetlights flickered on. This rule was a natural way your parents made sure you were safe.
Without cell phones, you couldn’t just call home, so getting back before dark was important. It became an easy curfew that you rarely questioned.
This simple rule gave you freedom all day but reminded you to respect your parents’ concerns. You learned to watch the sky and the streetlamps as a signal to head home.
Never touch the thermostat without permission
You quickly learned that the thermostat was off-limits unless you got the okay from an adult. Adjusting it meant risking a lecture about wasting energy or messing up the house settings.
It wasn’t just about temperature control; it was about respecting rules and proving you could be responsible. You probably waited until someone else handled it, no questions asked.
This rule kept the household comfortable and the bills down, but it also showed you some early lessons in patience and boundaries.
Ask before opening the fridge
You probably remember having to ask permission before opening the fridge. It wasn’t just about manners; it was about making sure you didn’t waste food or spoil a meal plan.
Your parents wanted to keep track of what was being eaten and when. Opening the fridge without asking could mean a scolding or a reminder to respect household rules.
This rule taught you patience and consideration, even if it felt a bit strict at the time. It also showed how much value was placed on managing resources carefully back then.
Finish every bite on your plate
You were often told to finish every bite on your plate, no matter what. This rule was about teaching you not to waste food and to appreciate what you had.
If you didn’t, you might have faced a scolding or had your meal saved for later. Today, parents tend to be more flexible, encouraging you to eat until you’re full instead of forcing every bite.
Call home if you’re going to be late
If you were out playing or hanging with friends, the rule was simple: call home if you were going to be late. Phones weren’t on every corner, so making that call was important to avoid worrying your parents.
You learned to find a payphone or use a neighbor’s phone quickly. Letting your family know you were safe and when to expect you was part of the unspoken code.
This rule kept things running smoothly and built trust between you and your parents. It showed responsibility, even before cellphones made staying in touch easy.
Don’t hang up the phone first
You learned early that hanging up the phone first was a big no-no. It was considered polite to let the other person end the call. This small act showed respect and kept the conversation friendly.
Since there was usually only one phone in the house, phone etiquette mattered a lot. You didn’t want to seem rude or rush a friend off the line. Holding on until they said goodbye was part of the unspoken rules.
This rule helped keep calls civil and made sure no one felt dismissed. It’s a simple reminder of how manners played a big role in everyday life back then.
