How Parenting Evolved Over Time

Parenting methods have changed dramatically throughout history. These changes often reflected the cultural, social, and medical beliefs of the time. Some older methods now seem unusual or even dangerous—one example being the use of whiskey in baby bottles. Let’s explore why parents once turned to whiskey to soothe their infants.

Why Whiskey Seemed Like a Solution

In many cultures, alcohol—especially whiskey—served as a go-to remedy. During the 19th and early 20th centuries, families used whiskey not just for drinking but also to treat illnesses. They believed it cured colds, eased pain, and improved digestion. When modern medicine wasn’t available, whiskey became a household fix for fussy babies.

Believed Benefits for Babies

Many parents thought whiskey helped their babies sleep and stay calm. They believed it eased teething pain by numbing the gums. These supposed benefits made it appealing for tired parents searching for quick relief. Even a small dose seemed better than no solution at all.

Medical Advice of the Time

Back then, medical guidance lacked today’s scientific rigor. Many doctors approved home remedies like whiskey. With limited research and a shaky understanding of child development, these endorsements added credibility to the practice. Traditional wisdom often carried more weight than evidence.

A Popular Teething Remedy

Teething often left babies cranky and uncomfortable. Without today’s pain relievers or teething gels, parents reached for whiskey. Rubbing it on a baby’s gums or adding a drop to a bottle became common. Though passed down through generations, this method carried hidden risks.

Society’s View on Alcohol Use

Alcohol was part of everyday life and didn’t carry the same warnings it does now. It was cheap, easy to get, and widely accepted. This casual attitude spilled over into childcare, where people didn’t yet recognize the harm alcohol could cause to infants.

Science Changed Everything

By the mid-1900s, research began to show how harmful alcohol is to babies. Doctors stopped recommending whiskey, and parents moved toward safer options. Public health campaigns and better medications helped shift norms. Parenting started leaning on science, not tradition.

How We See It Today

Now, giving whiskey to a baby sounds shocking. Today’s parents benefit from research, safer products, and better healthcare. This old practice reminds us of how far we’ve come—and why questioning tradition matters.

Final Thoughts: Learning from the Past

Looking back helps us move forward. The use of whiskey in baby bottles teaches a powerful lesson: always examine what we pass down. With more knowledge and resources than ever, parents can make informed choices that protect and nurture their children.