Growing up in the vibrant ’80s, my weekends and summer days were filled with cassette tapes of my favorite boy bands while I styled my hair into crimped perfection. I adorned my ponytail with a bright scrunchie, applied strawberry-flavored Lipsmacker, and indulged in watermelon Jolly Ranchers. My afternoons were often spent sprawled on my twin bed, flipping through the latest issue of Teen Beat, dreaming of a future with my crush, Devon Sawa.
Fridays meant tuning into two hours of sitcoms on TGIF, while Saturdays were dedicated to our VHS classics, including “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” and “Back to the Future,” accompanied by snacks like Pop Qwiz and Pizzareias chips. At school, my friends and I ruled the playground, playing endless games of four square and tetherball, or zooming down the steep metal slide. Those carefree days feel like a distant memory now that I’m a mother of four, and while ’80s nostalgia has made a comeback—think fanny packs and Caboodles—some beloved summer pastimes from my childhood are now frowned upon for safety reasons.
1. Drinking from the Garden Hose
Back in the day, summer meant being outside until lunch, and if we got thirsty, we simply drank from the hose. Today, I find myself lugging four BPA-free water bottles filled with filtered water for my kids. Hoses can leach harmful chemicals like lead and phthalates and harbor bugs and bacteria. Plus, water can heat up dangerously in the sun; stagnant water in hoses can reach temperatures of 130-140 degrees, posing a serious burn risk. Just last year, a baby suffered severe burns from hose water in Las Vegas.
2. Neglecting Sunscreen
My mom was adamant about sunscreen because her brother died of melanoma. However, many parents during my childhood didn’t share the same concern, allowing their kids to tan artificially before big events. Today, we know that even one blistering sunburn can double melanoma risk. Thankfully, there are safer sunscreen options available now, but DIY recipes for sunblock can be unreliable—it’s best to stick to trusted brands.
3. Consuming Artificially Dyed Treats
Brightly colored popsicles and candies were staples in my childhood, but now we understand the risks associated with artificial dyes. One of my kids experiences severe reactions after eating products with artificial red dye. These dyes can trigger issues ranging from headaches to hyperactivity. It’s crucial for parents to read ingredient labels and seek healthier alternatives, as artificial coloring lurks in many surprising places, including some supposedly nutritious snacks.
4. Hiring Young Babysitters
I started babysitting at 12, often with no adult oversight. While this can save parents money, it’s vital to ensure that sitters are mature and responsible. With the rise of smartphone distractions, parents might worry that young sitters are more interested in their devices than their charges. In many states, there are even age regulations regarding childcare. It’s wise to utilize professional services, conduct thorough interviews, and check references before hiring a babysitter.
5. Using Toxic Bug Sprays
While many of my peers skipped sunscreen, bug spray was a must. We often smelled of strong chemicals mixed with eucalyptus. Studies have shown that DEET, the active ingredient in many bug repellents, can cause nausea and concentration issues. Though protecting against pests is important—especially given the rise of diseases like Lyme disease and Alpha-gal syndrome—there are now much safer, natural repellents available that weren’t as common back in my day.
6. Playing on Merry-Go-Rounds
The merry-go-round was a playground classic, but they’ve become rare due to safety concerns. Back then, we relished the thrill of spinning, often to the point of nausea, but the risk of injury from falls or burns on hot metal was very real. Today, I still allow my kids to enjoy this vintage ride at our local park, but I keep a vigilant watch over them.
In summary, while childhood summers in the ’80s were filled with nostalgic fun, many of those activities are no longer deemed safe. With updated knowledge, we can ensure our children enjoy summer to the fullest while prioritizing their health and safety.
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