12 Things Your Southern Parents Did to Raise You That Most Find Interesting and Endearing Traditions
Growing up with Southern parents often meant a unique blend of traditions and habits that shaped your daily life in ways others might find unusual or charming. These distinctive parenting styles come from a mix of cultural values, family history, and a strong sense of community.
You might be surprised by how many small but meaningful things your Southern parents did that influenced your upbringing and character. Understanding these actions can give you a new appreciation for the role they played in shaping who you are today.
Cooking from scratch every Sunday afternoon
You probably remember the smell of fresh biscuits or a pot of simmering gravy filling the house. Sunday afternoons were reserved for gathering in the kitchen to prepare meals from scratch.
This wasn’t just about food. It was a family tradition where you learned recipes passed down through generations. You saw patience and care in every step, from peeling vegetables to slow-cooking meats.
Cooking together gave you a sense of comfort and connection. It taught you not only how to cook but also the value of sharing time and effort with loved ones.
Calling everyone ‘honey’ or ‘sweetie’ regardless of age
If you grew up in the South, you were probably called “honey” or “sweetie” a lot. It didn’t matter if you were a kid, a neighbor, or even a stranger. These terms are used to show kindness and warmth.
You might notice that your parents use these words naturally, often without thinking. It’s their way of making everyone feel welcome and cared for.
Sometimes it feels funny to hear these sweet nicknames in serious moments. But you learn it’s part of the Southern charm and a way to connect with people.
Having a stash of homemade remedies like Vicks and honey
You probably grew up with a cabinet full of homemade remedies. Vicks Vaporub was the go-to for colds and coughs. Just a little dab on the chest or under the nose was believed to help you breathe easier.
Honey was another household staple. A spoonful in your tea or hot water was used to soothe sore throats and calm coughs. Your parents trusted these simple, natural fixes long before medicine was an option.
These remedies were always ready before you even asked. They showed you how small, everyday things could make a difference when you felt under the weather.
Insisting on saying grace before every meal
In a Southern home, you likely learned to pause before digging in. Saying grace was more than habit; it was a moment to express thanks.
Your parents made sure you understood the value of gratitude. It wasn’t just about food but appreciating the effort behind it.
This simple ritual taught patience and respect. You quickly realized mealtime was a time to connect, not just eat.
Even when you were restless or hungry, grace was non-negotiable. It’s a quiet way your family showed faith and togetherness.
Teaching you how to make real sweet tea
Your Southern parents made sure you knew real sweet tea isn’t just sweetened iced tea. It starts with black tea, brewed strong and fresh. They taught you to steep the tea long enough to get a rich flavor.
Then comes the sugar—plenty of it. You learned to add the sugar while the tea is hot so it dissolves completely. This step is what makes it “sweet tea,” not just iced tea with sugar sprinkled on top.
Finally, your parents showed you the importance of chilling the tea well before serving it over ice. A cold, sweet glass is the perfect reward after a hot day.
Making you wear a bonnet or bow in church
Your Southern parents likely made sure you had a bonnet or bow on for church. It wasn’t just an accessory; it was about respect and tradition. Wearing one showed you were dressed for a special occasion.
You may have felt a little embarrassed at times, but it was a sign you were part of something bigger. The bonnet or bow added a touch of formality and charm to your Sunday outfit.
It also connected you to generations before you who wore similar headpieces. Your parents saw it as a way to teach you manners and pride in your appearance.
Having a massive family reunion every summer
You can always count on seeing a big crowd every summer. Your family reunion brings together cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents from near and far.
It’s a time for sharing stories, catching up, and enjoying plenty of homemade food. You learn about your family’s history just by listening and watching.
Kids run around while adults chat on the porch. The reunion feels like a mix of loud laughter and quiet moments.
You leave with a stronger sense of who you are and where you come from. It’s a tradition that keeps your family connected year after year.
Knowing the importance of a good church potluck
You learned early on that church potlucks aren’t just about food. They’re a chance to connect with neighbors and family in a relaxed setting.
Your parents probably insisted you bring a dish to share, reminding you that everyone contributes to the community. The variety of homemade casseroles, pies, and salads showed you the pride in cooking for others.
Potlucks were also where you saw kindness in action. People helped set up, served food, and cleaned without expecting anything in return. Those meals taught you the value of giving and sharing, no matter how small.
Teaching you Southern slang like ‘y’all’ and ‘bless your heart’
Your parents probably made sure you knew how to say “y’all” right from the start. It’s the go-to word when you’re talking to more than one person.
They also introduced phrases like “bless your heart.” It can mean sympathy, kindness, or sometimes a gentle way to point out a flaw.
Using these phrases became part of how you communicated with family and friends. It’s more than just words—it’s part of your Southern identity.
Making you eat everything on your plate with a ‘because I said so’
You learned early that leaving food uneaten wasn’t an option. Your Southern parents often said, “Eat everything on your plate.” There wasn’t much room for negotiation.
When you asked why, the answer was simple: “Because I said so.” It was less about explaining and more about respect for the effort put into the meal.
It taught you appreciation for food and the idea that wasting it wasn’t polite. You grew up understanding that meals were a family effort, not just about hunger.
Always having a jar of homemade pickles ready
You probably remember that jar of homemade pickles sitting on the kitchen counter. It wasn’t just for snacking—it was a staple in your Southern home. Your parents believed pickles added a special touch to any meal.
Whenever you needed a quick bite, those pickles were there. They showed you the value of homemade traditions and simple pleasures. Plus, they were a little taste of family history you could always count on.
Playing gospel or country music in the car
When you grew up in a Southern household, the car rides were filled with gospel or country tunes. Your parents believed music was more than entertainment—it was a way to connect with family values and faith.
You quickly learned the lyrics to classic songs, often singing along without even realizing it. The music set the tone for long drives and brought a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Sometimes, you caught your parents tapping the steering wheel to a favorite song. Those moments showed you that music could be a simple way to share joy and tradition on the road.
