As children, we grew up with rules that seemed perfectly natural to us. But many people, upon growing up, begin to realize that these strange rules were something unique to their home. Here are a few examples that will surely make you think about how some kids really didn't have it easy…

No Complete Privacy

When your mom barges into your room without waiting for permission, it might seem like a normal part of care. But years later, you realize that this is far from the norm. Being caught off guard in such a situation would make most people feel incredibly uncomfortable. 

It may seem harmless but personal space is important. When you finally grow up, you realize how essential it is to establish personal boundaries, especially in your relationship with your parents.

“You, as the oldest, should’ve stopped them!”

Sometimes parental decisions seem harsh, especially when we're still children. For example, what is it like to be punished for someone else’s mistakes? In one household, the oldest child was held responsible for the behavior of younger siblings. 

When a brother misbehaved, the punishment was always shared with the eldest daughter. It's not just frustrating, it’s a real sense of injustice, especially when, essentially, you were powerless to change the behavior of others. And honestly, it's a pretty wild practice...

No Leftover Food

When parents set certain rules, they often seem like they’re for our own good. But one rule was incredibly strange: “You must eat everything you cooked.” At first, it sounds logical—don’t waste food, appreciate what you have. But then, when it takes a bizarre turn...

This story shared on Reddit is pretty horrifying. The food had already spoiled to the point where no one would even dare to smell it, yet you’re told, “Eat it!” And there you are, reluctantly finishing up spoiled food because "we can't waste food!" It’s heartbreaking to think about how that poor person had to go through that as a child...

Strength and Endurance, Even When It Hurts

What is it like to not receive sympathy when you're genuinely sick? It’s something like this sad story... Sometimes, discipline goes too far. 

How can it be normal when you break your leg and your parent tells you to work on your willpower instead of resting? Sometimes, such experiences leave lasting scars throughout life...

Politeness to the Extreme

We’re taught "please" and "thank you" from childhood, and it becomes an essential part of life. But sometimes we’re taught to be so polite that it turns into real tension, especially in adulthood. You can’t just invite yourself to something, even if you really want to. 

You always need to wait for an invitation, so you don’t come off as pushy. This “politeness instinct” becomes so strong that even the simplest requests become difficult for us.

When You're Sick – Stay in Bed, No Exceptions!

At some point, sickness became a real trial for this person as a child. Imagine your parent makes you lie in bed all day even when you don’t feel that bad. You can’t even play for five minutes when you start feeling better... 

Sometimes these days make you want to get back to your regular life even more quickly. Maybe it was just concern but it was kind of strange, wasn’t it?

Military Order, Even for Underwear

When your father, adhering to military discipline, starts demanding that you fold your underwear in a specific way, and doesn’t understand that you’re only 8 years old and not used to such demands, it seems odd. 

Who would’ve thought that military academy rules could affect family life so much? Childhood should be a time for lightness, not strict military standards. It’s a shame that some parents don’t understand that.

One Shower a Day!

Living in a family with multiple children is always a challenge. One of the strange and uncomfortable rules was: one shower per day. It saved resources but at the same time, it severely limited personal needs. 

We suspect this child wasn’t just restricted in showers but also in other basic things that should have been easy to access. It’s really sad...

Seizures? That's No Reason to Make a Scene!

Many parents, unfortunately, don't immediately recognize that their child might have a real medical condition. One person shared that they had seizures as a kid but hid them because their parents would scold them for it. Not worry, not care but scold! 

It wasn't until they were 13 that they were finally taken to a doctor, where it turned out to be a neurological condition easily managed with medication. Let's all agree on this: a child's health is not a nuisance or a reason for punishment.

"Never Say Yes Right Away!"

Some families had a bizarre rule: if someone offers you food, you must not accept it immediately. You have to refuse at least once. 

Who even came up with this? If the host insists, then you can take it. If they don’t… well, I guess you're staying hungry. What kind of social experiment is this? Why not just say "yes" and take the food?

The Kitchen Sink is Only for Dishes!

Most people wash their hands in the nearest available sink. Logical? Logical. But not in some households where the rule was: “Hands are washed ONLY in the bathroom!” And now, as adults, people from these families find themselves hesitating before using a kitchen sink for anything other than dishes.

Imagine visiting a friend's house, reaching to rinse off ketchup from your fingers, and suddenly hearing yourself ask, "Uh… is it okay if I wash my hands here?" only to get a confused look in response.

No Talking in the Car!

Childhood is full of endless "why" and "what if" questions, especially during car rides when there’s so much to see and talk about. But in some families, there was a strict rule of silence in the car. No talking, no questions, no games. Just sit there in total quiet.

Now, as adults, people who grew up with this rule often feel weirdly uncomfortable speaking up in a taxi or even in a friend’s car.

You Must Come IMMEDIATELY When Called

In some households, when a parent called your name, you were expected to drop everything and run to them. It didn’t matter if you were in the middle of something important—if you didn’t respond fast enough, there would be yelling, anger, or even punishment.

Now, as grown-ups, people who lived with this rule sometimes jump to their feet at the slightest authoritative call. It's a reflex that never quite goes away. Also, a strange related rule—some girls grew up being strictly forbidden from using tampons. Why? No one explained. It was just a firm "You can’t."

When Exercise Feels Like Punishment

Physical activity is great but forcing it on a child like a military drill? Not so much.

One person recalled being made to run up and down the stairs while their father shouted, "FASTER! FASTER!" until their legs burned and they couldn’t feel their toes. They were only 10. That’s not "building character"—that’s just cruel.

No Sneezing Allowed

Some family rules are so absurd that they barely make sense. Like banning sneezing because "it’s not ladylike." Seriously, how do parents even come up with this stuff? Did they also forbid yawning and hiccuping?

It sounds ridiculous but the long-term effects are real. People who grew up with this rule sometimes still suppress sneezes out of habit, which, by the way, can be dangerous. Holding in a sneeze can damage blood vessels or even cause nasal injuries.

Parents Controlling Every Step

Some kids grow up with a schedule that looks more like a strict military regimen than a childhood. Field trips? Only if Mom goes too. Sleepovers? Absolutely not. Weekends? Already booked with religious activities.

It might seem like parents are just trying to keep their kids safe but in reality, they’re controlling every aspect of their lives. The result? These kids grow up with little chance to develop independence.

"I'll Decide Who You Can Be Friends With!"

Some parents are so controlling that they go as far as choosing their child’s friends. What’s even weirder? The criteria for "bad friends" were often completely random. 

Some parents, for example, wouldn’t allow their child to befriend kids whose parents were divorced. As if friendship were some kind of contagious disease.

No Guests Allowed!

All kids dream of having a house where they can invite their friends, show off their favorite toys, host a movie night, or simply hang out without the presence of adults.

But as you can see from this story, in some families, that wasn’t an option. The house was considered a closed-off space, and guests were not welcome—especially friends. What’s the result? The friendship fades simply because there was nowhere to nurture it. Poor kid!

Washing Clothes Without a Dryer – The Meaning of Life

There are things that should make life easier, like a clothes dryer but some parents treat them like luxuries. The concept of just tossing clothes into the dryer and having them come out dry seems simple, right? But no, in some families, laundry had to be hung manually, even for tiny socks or handkerchiefs.

And then, as adults, when these kids finally have the option, they use the dryer for even just a pair of socks. It's a small act of rebellion, just because they can now!

Sick? Go to School!

Some parents genuinely believe that if there’s no fever, you’re perfectly healthy. Headache? Nausea? Doesn’t matter—go to school! But what if the child has a migraine, stomach issues, or just feels completely drained? If the thermometer says "normal," then no excuses!

As a result, these kids grow up not knowing how to rest properly, even when they’re truly sick. They’ve been taught to power through, no matter how bad they feel.

Tooth Pain Without Anesthesia

If you think the worst part of the dentist is the sound of the drill, imagine getting your tooth drilled without any anesthesia. Just because that’s how it was done, according to the parents.

And then you see your mom get a filling with all the pain relief and wonder: wait, why wasn’t that an option for me? It feels like a betrayal.

Four Squares of Toilet Paper? Not a Square More!

When saving becomes obsessive, you end up with rules like "Only use four squares of toilet paper."

Sure, being frugal is good but four squares? How does that even work? How did this rule even come about, and why would anyone enforce it on a child?

Superstitions That Poison Childhood

Some parents believe so strongly in superstitions that they turn their child’s life into a constant fear of doing something wrong. "Don’t touch your belly button or your intestines will fall out!" or "Don’t whistle, you’ll never have money!"—and suddenly, the child lives in a state of constant anxiety, thinking every little action will bring disaster.

But at some point, they realize it’s all nonsense. And with great relief, they declare: "I’m done with this, I’m not believing in this crap anymore!"

Lights Off?!

When electricity is constantly being shut off in the house, that’s stressful enough. But in some families, there was an additional rule: don’t turn anything on even when the power comes back. Sounds bizarre—just like the justification that the electricity bill would go up again.

Well, with this mindset, you either grow up with a strong sense of frugality… or with the determination never to penny-pinch on utilities again.

Don’t Touch the Kittens—They’ll Die!

Many kids dream of having puppies or kittens but some parents find it easier to make up a terrifying rule rather than just saying “no.” “Don’t touch newborn kittens, or they’ll die!” Seriously? Sure, it’s best not to handle newborn animals unnecessarily but turning this into a horror story—why?

This seems like a classic example of the "scare instead of explaining" method, which only left kids with a bunch of irrational fears that followed them into adulthood.

Your Room Is Not for Fun

For many kids, their bedroom is their personal space—where they can play, watch movies, read, or just relax. But some parents had a strict rule: no toys, no TV, no phone—just a bed and books.

What was the point of this? An attempt to raise a “humble and well-mannered” person? Or just fear that the kid would hide away and never come out? Either way, the lingering feeling of “I grew up in a storage closet” isn’t easy to shake off.

Don’t Touch Your Brother!

Some families ban any kind of close physical contact even between siblings. What about a friendly hug? Or resting your head on your younger brother’s shoulder when you’re feeling sick? Nope, that’s “wrong” and “unacceptable.”

Sure, it’s important to teach kids about personal boundaries but turning basic comfort into a taboo is just too much. These rules only confuse children, making them feel like they’re doing something shameful—when in reality, they aren’t.

Friends? Only Under Full Surveillance!

Some parents treat their child’s social life like a top-secret mission. Want to visit a friend’s house? Only if mom calls their parents first and gets a full report on who will be there, what you’ll be doing, and under whose supervision.

The result? These kids often just stop trying to make friends—because it’s easier to be alone than to go through a full security check every time.

Ask and You Shall… Not Receive

Some parents create bizarre rules that don’t make sense even years later. For example, if you ask for something in a store—you won’t get it. The logic? Unknown…

Maybe they were trying to prevent tantrums in public but the outcome was strange: the child never understood why a simple request automatically meant rejection. Now, as an adult, this person still wonders, “If I ask for a raise at work, will I automatically not get it?”

Eating Out? Not in This Family!

Another bizarre rule: three meals a day—only at home. Even if you’re an adult, even if you’re out with friends, even if you just want to experience eating out for once… too bad.

The worst part? Teenage years. While your friends casually grab dinner together, you’re stuck awkwardly explaining that you can’t skip dinner at home—because your portion is already waiting for you, and you must eat it all. Every. Last. Bite.

Kissing? Look Away!

For some parents, even the mildest romantic scenes on TV were unacceptable. A kiss in a movie? Close your eyes immediately! Maybe there was some hidden moral lesson behind this but more often than not, it just led to lifelong awkwardness around any display of affection.

And now, as an adult, this person doesn’t understand why they feel uncomfortable seeing friends hold hands or kiss in public.

Chew 50 Times!

Good digestion is important, of course. But when parents turn eating into a chewing championship, things start getting weird. “Chew 50 times before swallowing.” Seriously? You can try… unless you're eating soup. Then the rules get a little tricky.

Now it makes sense why this person might hate chewing gum as an adult—they probably reached their lifetime chew limit back in childhood.

A Couch You Can’t Sit On

Some things in the house exist purely for decoration. A pristine, cozy, soft white couch… but sitting on it is forbidden. Getting close? Not recommended. And if a guest accidentally sits on it—disaster!

Now, this person lives on their own, and guess what? They definitely sit on their couch. Because that’s what couches are for!

Carpets Aren’t for Walking!

Carpets add warmth and comfort to a home but in some families, they turn into sacred objects that must remain untouched. You just want to get to the kitchen but nope—you have to take a detour because Mom doesn’t want to see footprints messing up the perfectly brushed fibers.

What’s the solution? Sneaking across when the parents are asleep. Because it’s just a carpet! But no—punishment awaits, even for the slightest suspicion. Now that this person is grown up, guess what? They either don’t own carpets at all or let them get as messy as they want!

The Door? Never Open It!

Some parents are so afraid of strangers that they ban their kids from answering the door. Okay, at five years old, that makes sense. But when you’re almost eighteen and still not allowed to open the door? That gets frustrating.

And now, as an adult, this person is more likely to text “I’m at your door” or just wait for someone else to answer rather than daring to grab the handle themselves.

One Type of Food, Once a Day—No Exceptions!

Had an apple in the morning? Great! But forget about eating another one until tomorrow. Want some juice at lunch? Too late! Juice is only for breakfast.

Some parents turn food into a strict checklist, assigning each item a fixed time slot. Then the kid grows up and realizes: “Wait, I can eat TWO apples in one day, and nothing bad will happen!”

Another Carpet Problem!

Yep, another carpet! But this time—a personal one, in the kid’s bedroom. A dark blue center with a beige border. But guess what? Walking on the blue part is forbidden! Because footprints will show.

That kid grows up, and guess what kind of carpet they’ll never buy? Any carpet at all!

The Sacred Egg Pan

Sometimes, random household objects gain legendary status. Like… the egg pan. It can only be used for eggs. And eggs can only be cooked in that pan.

Babysitters were always confused when the kids stopped them from using the sacred pan for anything else. Now, as an adult, this person looks at their frying pan, cooks an omelet in the same pan where they fried bacon—just because they can.

Cleaning? Not Allowed!

Usually, parents expect kids to clean up after themselves. But some parents lose their minds if a child dares to tidy up anything in the house.

In families where one parent is borderline hoarder, any attempt to organize things can lead to actual panic. Mountains of old receipts, stacks of papers, magazines from ten years ago – all untouchable. And now this person has grown up and realizes just how bizarre this was!

Gifts Are Forbidden!

Kids love gifts. But what if they’re not allowed to accept them at all? Some parents are convinced that any gift is suspicious. What if it’s stolen? Or worse – given with some hidden agenda?

So, the child grows up refusing everything that’s offered to them. And now, as an adult, they struggle to accept even the simplest acts of kindness.

Even in Games – Follow the Rules!

Video games should be pure fun, right? But some parents control even how you play! For example, if a racing game allows you to drive on the wrong side or break the rules – absolutely not!

“You’ll drive like that in real life!” – they say, truly believing that their kid, after speeding in a virtual Ferrari, will crash into the first real-life traffic light. Cringe, isn’t it?

No Piano, No Dinner!

Music is wonderful but when you have to play the piano before dinner, it becomes torture. Even worse, in the same family, musical instruments could be both a reward and a punishment. 

Got bad grades? Say goodbye to your guitar. But skipping piano practice before dinner? Not an option. It’s likely that the person who shared this story never touched another instrument again.

Strange Shorts Rule!

Most kids dream of wearing comfy clothes, especially in hot weather. But what if there’s a rule that shorts are forbidden unless the morning temperature reaches a certain number of degrees?

So, you walk to school in jeans, suffocating in the heat… Sounds just "great"!

Chips on…Thursdays!

Some families schedule their favorite snacks like an official event. For example, chips are only allowed in school on Thursdays.

Reading these stories, it sometimes feels like some parents are intentionally making life harder for themselves and their kids… But why?

Mom? Dad? Never heard of them

Usually, kids' first words are "mom" and "dad." But what if those words… are forbidden? Some parents believe that saying "mom" and "dad" is disrespectful. So instead, you must say “mommy,” “daddy,” or even “dearest parental unit” (okay, I made that last one up but who knows!).

Now this person has grown up and still can’t comfortably address their parents. Or they just avoid it altogether to not sound weird. Terrifying!

Earn your screen time!

Modern kids spend hours glued to their gadgets but some parents take screen time restrictions to a whole new level. In one family, simply wanting to spend an hour on the computer came with a price—you had to earn it. 

That meant running laps outside, reading a book, and, for good measure, dedicating part of that reading time to the Bible. Now, as an adult, this person still struggles with the ingrained guilt of unwinding in front of a show, feeling like they should be doing something "productive" first.

Lying Down? Only When Alone!

In some families, even relaxing on the couch can cause a scandal. Sitting next to a guy – okay. But if one of you accidentally lies down – absolutely not!

Apparently, parents thought that a horizontal position = instant pregnancy. What kind of nonsense is that? And why fill kids’ heads with such ridiculous ideas? Hard to understand…

Dangerous Soap Operas!

Some parents seriously ban the most innocent things. For example, watching soap operas? A horrible sin. So much so that "you could go to jail for that"!

We suspect that now this grown-up person watches ALL the previously banned shows just out of spite.

No Gum Outside!

 “Chewing gum in public is rude!” – said the dad. But at home? No problem! Blowing bubbles, competing with Bazooka gum – as much as you want!

Just no gum outside! You have to wonder – how long did these parents think before coming up with such a weird rule?

Tabletop RPGs – the Gateway to Satanism!

“My parents were reasonable,” – says this Redditor. But the moment they mentioned Dungeons & Dragons, their parents’ eyes filled with horror…

“It’s a cult! It leads to murder!” So, instead of sneaking out to drink or smoke, this teenager was sneaking out to play D&D. Honestly, it seems like way too many kids have dealt with absurd childhood bans…