Daily Chores:
- Children had numerous daily chores to contribute to the family's survival.
- They helped with cooking, cleaning, gardening, livestock care, and general household tasks.
- Older children might assist in more intensive labor like harvesting crops, milking cows, and tending to farm equipment.
Education:
- Formal schooling was limited, and most children received basic education at home.
- Parents or older siblings taught reading, writing, and arithmetic using available resources like primers and religious texts.
- Some families might hire tutors or send their children to local schools if available.
Work and Play:
- Farm children often worked alongside adults, gaining valuable skills and contributing to the family's economy.
- Playtime was limited, but children would engage in outdoor activities such as exploring nature, playing games like tag or hide-and-seek, and creating toys from natural materials.
- They helped with barn chores, including feeding and cleaning animals, collecting eggs, and milking cows.
Clothing:
- Children wore practical and durable clothing made from natural materials like wool and linen.
- Simple designs were common due to limited resources, and clothes were often made at home.
Health and Nutrition:
- Medical care was limited, so home remedies and traditional practices were used to treat illnesses.
- Children might assist with preparing meals and preserving food for the winter months.
- The farm provided a diverse diet, including fresh produce, dairy products, and meats.
Family and Social Life:
- Children grew up in close-knit families, learning the importance of cooperation, resilience, and responsibility.
- Social interaction often occurred within the local community, as families visited neighboring farms for trade, barn raisings, and social events.
Apprenticeships:
- As children reached adolescence, some might undergo apprenticeships with local artisans, craftsmen, or farmers to learn specific trades or skills.
Religious Influence:
- Religion played a significant role in colonial life, and children received religious education and attended services with their families.
Overall, children's lives on colonial farms were characterized by hard work, self-reliance, and a strong connection to nature and family.