Parenting has always reflected the best knowledge available at the time—even when some practices later proved harmful. A striking example is the 19th and early 20th-century custom of adding whiskey to baby bottles. Whiskey was widely viewed as medicine, used to soothe sore throats, aid digestion, relieve pain, and calm babies. Parents believed a few drops could ease colic, numb teething pain, or help infants sleep.

With limited medical care and few safer alternatives, many saw this practice as compassionate rather than dangerous. Even some doctors endorsed alcohol for children, as pediatric science was still evolving. Social acceptance of alcohol and a lack of effective remedies made the use of whiskey common.

By the mid-20th century, research revealed that alcohol could harm infant brain development, breathing, and long-term health. Public health campaigns and safer medical options eventually ended this practice.

Though shocking today, this history reminds us how parenting evolves with growing knowledge. Past generations acted out of love, and their mistakes emphasize the importance of evidence-based care and openness to new discoveries.