Before kids could race outside on their bikes, meet friends,
or disappear into the neighborhood for the afternoon, there were usually chores waiting at home.

This video looks back at 18 everyday chores many American kids growing
up in the 1970s remember doing before they were free to go play. From
making the bed and folding laundry to returning soda bottles, mowing the lawn, and washing the family car, these small responsibilities were part of the rhythm of childhood.

The exact routine differed from one family, neighborhood, and household to another, but the feeling was familiar: finish what had to be done, then the rest of the day was yours.

Chores FEATURED

1.  Making the Bed and Straightening Up Your Bedroom
2.  Folding Laundry or Taking Clothes Off the Line
3.  Dusting the Furniture and the Family TV Cabinet
4.  Vacuuming the Living-Room Carpet
5.  Cleaning the Bathroom Sink or Tub
6.  Setting and Clearing the Dinner Table
7.  Washing and Drying the Dishes by Hand
8.  Taking the Household Trash Out to the Curb or Alley
9.  Feeding and Watering the Family Pet
10. Watching a Younger Brother or Sister for a While
11. Carrying Grocery Bags Into the House
12. Returning Empty Glass Soda Bottles to the Store
13. Running a Small Errand to the Corner Store for a Parent
14. Sweeping the Front Porch, Stoop, or Steps
15. Pulling Weeds or Helping in the Garden
16. Raking Leaves Across the Yard
17. Mowing the Lawn or Helping With the Mower
18. Washing the Family Car in the Driveway

Which of these chores do you remember doing before you were allowed to go outside and play?

#nostalgia  #1970s #childhood #chores #memories #america #retro