Remember Life Before Roblox? The Fun Activities that Kept 80s Kids Occupied

The 1980s may seem simpler compared to now, but there were still significant cultural and technological changes, especially for children. While many of the activities enjoyed by kids in that decade may seem outdated by today’s standards, they still hold a special place in the hearts of those who grew up during that era. Here are some activities that were popular among kids in the 1980s.

1. Riding Bikes

a boy and girl ride bikes together

Perhaps one of the most classic childhood activities, riding bikes was a staple of 1980s playtime. With fewer electronic distractions, kids would spend hours exploring their neighborhoods on two wheels, often with a group of friends.

2. Playing Video Games

two atari joysticks from the 80s

While video games have come a long way since the 1980s, they were still a popular pastime for kids back then. Games like Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Super Mario Bros. were all the rage, and kids would often spend hours at the arcade trying to beat high scores.

3. Watching Saturday Morning Cartoons

the back of the head of a boy and girl watching tv

Saturday morning cartoons were a childhood staple in the 1980s. Kids would wake up early and tune in to shows like The Smurfs, Transformers, and He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, to name a few.

4. Playing Board Games

two girls playing board games

Not everyone could afford to have video games at home, so board games were a popular way for kids to pass the time. Classics like Monopoly, Scrabble, and Risk were all popular choices, and families often spent evenings playing together.

5. Playing With Action Figures

Optimus Prime from 1980

Action figures were a big deal in the 1980s, with popular lines like G.I. Joe, He-Man, and ThunderCats dominating toy store shelves. Kids would spend hours creating elaborate stories and battles with their favorite characters.

6. Playing Outside

two girls climbing a big tree

In the 1980s, kids spent much more time outside than they do today. Kids always found new ways to explore the great outdoors, whether playing catch with a ball, jumping rope, or climbing trees.

7. Reading Books

a group of kids reading their own books

With no social media or streaming services to distract them, kids in the 1980s often turned to books for entertainment. Popular series like The Babysitters Club and Goosebumps entertained kids for hours.

8. Watching Movies

people sitting in a movie theater

While movie theaters have always been popular, going to the movies was an especially exciting experience for kids in the 1980s. Blockbusters like E.T. and The Karate Kid were hugely popular, and kids often spent weeks anticipating their release.

9. Collecting Stickers

different colored stickers

Sticker collecting was a big trend in the 1980s. Kids would often purchase albums and packets of stickers to collect and trade. Popular sticker collections included Garbage Pail Kids and scratch-and-sniff stickers.

10. Playing with Dolls

Barbie doll collection

While action figures were popular with boys, dolls were still a big deal for girls in the 1980s. Barbie was still going strong, and Cabbage Patch Kids were a huge craze, with kids lining up for hours to get their hands on one.

11. Marbles

a boy and girl playing with marbles on the ground

Those beautiful glass balls would keep kids busy for hours as they dug tiny holes in the dirt and competed with other kids to win their marbles. Biggies, gassers, and cat’s eyes were just a few of the most sought-after marbles. 

Looking back on these activities, it’s clear that the 1980s were a simpler time for kids. With fewer electronic distractions and more time spent outside, kids could enjoy a range of activities that fostered creativity and imagination.

Read More: Kids Shouldn’t Be Taught These Things in School

girl holding a boombox and wearing a sweat band and tie dyed sweat shirt
deposit photos

 

When someone on a forum asked “What shouldn’t be taught in schools?” people had plenty to say. The following is a list of things people thought it was time to stop teaching children either because it had no redeeming value, would serve them no purpose in life or was just plain wrong in this day and age.

Kids Shouldn’t Be Taught These Things in School

Popular Meals in the 1960s Women Cooked for Their Families

woman housewife in vintage outfit, 1960s holding a pot and lid
deposit photos

 

In the 1960s, the role of the housewife was still primarily centered around homemaking and cooking. In many households, the housewife was responsible for preparing meals for her family, often using simple ingredients and traditional recipes. Here are some of the most popular meals a homemaker would cook in the 1960s.

Popular Meals in the 1960s Women Cooked for Their Families

Tired of Hearing I’m Bored? Try These 50 Fun Activities for Kids

two kids, boy and girl standing back to back
Image credit: Shutterstock

 

Trying to entertain bored children can be a challenge. Boredom can strike during hours outside of school so often that constantly taking them out for entertainment can significantly drain your budget. All parents would love for their kids to find activities to do that are free or affordable and keep the kids happy.

Prepare for the next time you hear the words ‘I’m bored’ by checking out this list of activities that are free or low-cost. Many are at home and can help keep the kids entertained for hours.

Tired of Hearing I’m Bored? Try These 50 Fun Activities for Kids