Work
Children were expected to work hard from a young age. Boys typically helped their fathers with farm work, such as planting crops, harvesting, and tending to animals. Girls helped their mothers with household tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and sewing.
Education
Education was not compulsory in the colonies, but many families did send their children to school. Schools were typically one-room schoolhouses, and the curriculum was basic: reading, writing, and arithmetic.
Play
Children did have time for play, and there were many games and activities that they enjoyed. Some popular games included tag, hide-and-seek, and games with marbles. Children also played with dolls, tops, and other toys.
Chores
Children also had chores to do, such as sweeping the floors, fetching water, and feeding the animals. Chores were considered an important part of learning to be a responsible adult.
Punishment
Children were expected to be obedient, and parents often used physical punishment to enforce this obedience. Common forms of punishment included spanking, whipping, and being sent to bed without food.
Family Life
Most colonial children lived with their parents and siblings. Families were typically close-knit, and children were taught to respect their parents and elders.
Religion
Religion played an important role in colonial life, and children were taught about the Bible and the importance of faith. Many families attended church regularly, and children were often expected to memorize scripture and participate in religious services.
Colonial childhood was a time of hard work, education, play, and discipline. Children were expected to be productive members of society, and they were often given the tools and resources they needed to succeed in adult life.