How Parents Survived Raising Kids During the Great Depression (And How You Can, Too)

Raising kids today isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Between juggling work, keeping track of extracurriculars, grocery bills, and the occasional mild meltdown over a missing sock, it can feel like you're just trying to survive until bedtime.

But here’s the thing — we’re not the first to deal with chaos and budget stress. The Great Depression? Yeah, it was rough. And parents back then? They were basically raising kids while navigating a storm of financial hardship, job loss, and food shortages. Yet somehow, they managed to keep their families fed, clothed, and somewhat sane.

So, if you’re feeling like you might be drowning in bills, laundry, and pet hair, know that there’s wisdom to be learned from how our grandparents did it — and maybe a little humor to help you survive today's chaos too.

*This site contains Amazon Affiliate Links.

1. Cloth Diapers Were the Norm (and So Was the Laundry)

Let’s start with the most glamorous part of parenthood: diapers. If you thought modern diapering was rough, imagine being in the middle of a Great Depression, where cloth diapers weren’t just a sustainable choice — they were a necessity. Not only were they reusable, but they were also budget-friendly and practical (when you had no other option).

Today, cloth diapers are still a great way to save money and reduce waste. You can even find cute and convenient cloth diaper options that are as easy to use as disposables. Sure, it requires more laundry, but if you’re environmentally conscious and looking to save some cash, it’s a win-win. Just be sure to have a good diaper pail and laundry schedule — because, trust me, your laundry pile will never stop growing.

2. Breastfeeding When Possible (It Wasn’t Just for the Health Benefits)

Breastfeeding wasn’t just a health trend during the Great Depression — it was often the only affordable option. Baby formula was expensive, and many families just didn’t have the luxury of buying it. So, breastfeeding wasn’t a choice so much as it was a matter of survival.

Fast forward to today, and I’m over here trying to make enough breast milk while also managing to get a shower before noon (spoiler: I don’t always succeed). But hey, I do appreciate the financial benefits of breastfeeding. Plus, there’s something deeply bonding about it — even if I’m also desperately Googling how to make it work while I chase a toddler around the living room and try not to spill coffee all over myself.

In today's world, there are also some great resources for breastfeeding moms — online groups, breastfeeding consultants, and even stores with all the nursing gear you could need. So while it might feel overwhelming, you're not alone, and breastfeeding is still one of the most affordable and beneficial choices for both mom and baby.

3. Saving for College by… Not Spending Money on College?

Back in the day, saving for college was a lot more about not spending money. The Great Depression saw many families cut back on everything, including any unnecessary expenses that might have drained their already tight budgets. But that didn’t mean they didn’t value education.

Many families went to great lengths to make sure their kids had an education. Instead of the latest gadgets and trendy clothes, families prioritized books, school supplies, and basic necessities. If your grandma didn’t have a set of designer shoes, she probably had a solid education that helped her get through the tough times.

Today, it feels like a college education is a whole other kind of mountain to climb. But the lesson we can take from the Depression is this: when things get tough, be creative in how you save — and don’t forget that the most important thing you can give your kids is a solid foundation, whether that’s through education or just teaching them how to be resourceful.

Modern-day savings techniques for college include opening 529 plans, shopping around for the best tuition rates, and taking advantage of scholarships and grants. Plus, taking advantage of low-cost or free community college programs can be an affordable way to get a solid education without going into crippling debt.

4. School Supplies on a Budget (It’s All About the Hand-Me-Downs)

Speaking of school, did you know that back in the Depression, kids often made do with hand-me-downs when it came to school supplies? A worn-out notebook, a dull pencil — these were luxuries. And yet, kids somehow still made it work. They didn’t whine about having to share a pencil or use last year’s notebook — they knew they didn’t have a choice.

Now, I’m over here trying to stretch my kids’ school supplies into a year’s worth of projects, while they somehow always manage to lose everything. But, hey, at least we’ve got those community swaps and bargain deals on supplies these days. Maybe it’s not handing down as much as it is handing over — but the principle is the same.

Today, you can still get school supplies affordably by shopping at dollar stores, using coupons, and taking advantage of back-to-school sales. And let’s not forget about the power of the community — kids don’t need new everything, and some school supplies can be shared or passed down year after year.

5. Using the Library (Because Who Needs to Buy Books?)

Your grandma didn’t need a library card to know that the local library was a treasure trove. It was free, it had books, and it kept the kids busy for hours. And yes, it probably saved her sanity too. Today, we’re lucky enough to have access to an almost endless supply of resources: books, movies, online courses, and even free community events for kids.

As a mom who is constantly tripping over piles of children’s books (how do they accumulate so quickly?), I’ve learned the value of the library. Not only is it an excellent source of entertainment, but it’s also a resource for free educational programs and even after-school tutoring. Plus, it’s a great place to drop off the kids for an hour while you sit in the car and eat your secret stash of chocolate.

Libraries are still one of the most affordable ways to keep kids entertained and learning, so don’t overlook this hidden gem. Plus, they often have free story times, classes, and events that can keep your kids engaged without breaking the bank.

6. It Takes a Village (Or at Least the Neighbor Who Will Help You Babysit)

Back in the day, families didn’t have the luxury of daycare or help from a babysitter service. But they did have a community — a true "village" — that helped raise the children. If your grandpa couldn’t take you to a doctor, it was the neighbor down the street who had a remedy. If you needed someone to watch your kids while you ran errands, you could always rely on Aunt Sarah or the lady next door.

Today, I’m realizing that I need to build my village — because while I love my kids, I also need someone to tell me, “Hey, you’re doing great!” and to maybe take my toddler for a few hours so I can get some quiet time. Having a community is still key, whether that’s finding a trusted neighbor, family member, or even online support groups (who knew Facebook could be so helpful?).

The truth is, a community of support — whether it’s virtual, in-person, or a combination — can be a huge asset when times are tough. Look for opportunities to swap babysitting, trade chores, or just lend an ear to other parents who know what you're going through.

7. Pets Are Family, Too (Even When They’re Chewing Through Your Shoes)

Back then, pets were part of the family, even if they didn’t get the luxury of gourmet food. They ate leftovers, were often groomed by the family, and were generally treated with love and care. Fast-forward to today, and I’m over here trying to figure out how to save money on dog food, while my cats are living their best lives, eating high-end kibble and demanding belly rubs.

But here’s the truth: Like in the Depression, pets are family. So, while you might not be able to afford a fancy pet bed or designer treats, there’s still a lot to be said for the love and care you give your furry companions. And, bonus — the emotional support they provide is priceless.

Take a page from your grandma’s book and find ways to save on pet care by making your own treats, grooming them at home, and feeding them simple, healthy meals. It’s a good way to save money and ensure your pets are happy and healthy.

8. Be Resourceful, and Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

In the Great Depression, families leaned on each other. They borrowed, they traded, they helped each other out in ways that went beyond what we might expect today. That sense of resourcefulness, of asking for help when needed, is something that can serve any parent well.

So, if you’re a mom like me — overwhelmed, exhausted, and still learning how to make it through the chaos — remember this: it’s okay to ask for help. Whether it’s borrowing clothes, getting advice, or just needing a little time for yourself, you don’t have to do this alone.

Surviving Parenthood, Depression-Era Style

Raising kids today is hard. But it was hard back then, too. While we may have access to more resources and gadgets than our grandparents, the essence of good parenting — whether it’s loving your kids, teaching them to be resourceful, or building a community — remains the same. So, let’s take a page out of their book, find the humor in the chaos, and keep doing our best — because we’ve got this.

Connect with Author:

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse