How has parenting changed over the years?
In this episode of Stages for Ages, we’re going way back—like Paleolithic era back—to uncover how parents have raised children across time. From cavemen to Cleopatra, Spartans to Victorians, we’re exploring the difference between old parenting and new parenting, and what we can actually take from the past to help us today.
We’ll also answer big questions like: Is parenting harder now than in the past?
Why is it hard to be a parent today? What year is the hardest to parent?
What is the most exhausting stage of parenting?
Why is raising kids so hard now?
How does 80s parenting differ from current parenting?
Spoiler: It’s not about doing it perfectly. It’s about doing your best with what you’ve got.
💡 What you’ll learn in this episode:
How early humans practiced “village” style parenting and weaned at 2.5 years old
How Egyptian scrolls were the first parenting manuals (toilet training and all!)
The brutal reality of Spartan parenting vs. Athenian ideals
Why Victorian children were expected to be “seen and not heard”
The rise of the nuclear family, Enlightenment thinking, and today’s mixed parenting styles
This episode will leave you feeling empowered, informed, and a little less alone in the chaos of modern parenting. Because no matter the century, parents have always just wanted the best for their children.
✨ Your parenting doesn’t have to fit in a box. Whether you're practicing gentle parenting, helicopter parenting, or something in between, you’re allowed to choose what works best for your family.
🗣️ Join the conversation:
What parenting style resonates with you? What did your parents or grandparents do differently? Head over to our socials @Stages4Ages and tell us what you’ve learned from the past, and how you’re shaping the future.
🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and don’t forget to leave a review! Y
👣 How early humans weaned and carried their young
🐍 Ancient Egyptian advice on breastfeeding, discipline, and even toilet training
⚔️ The tough love of Spartan childhood vs. the Athenian love of learning
📜 Philosophers like Plato, Locke & Rousseau shaping education ideals
👑 Why Victorian kids were "seen and not heard"
💡 How modern parenting is now a mash-up of every style in the book
Through each stop in time, we’re exploring one simple truth: there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to parenting. Whether you’re winging it, following gentle parenting, or dipping between styles – you’re doing great.
Key Takeaways: The concept of “it takes a village” goes all the way back to our earliest ancestors. Historical parenting was shaped by survival, culture, and community—just like today. It’s okay to mix and match parenting styles to suit your child (and your sanity). The most important thing? Being present and raising your child with love.
💬 Join the conversation: What parenting style resonates most with you? How did your parents raise you—and what would you change or keep? Tell us over on social media @Stages4Ages and let’s chat. 📲 Subscribe, share, and don’t forget to leave a review—we love hearing what you think!
