In present and Victorians times, family and friends were very important. Victorians often had large families. Sometimes Grandad, Grandma, Mum, Dad and lots of children would all live in the same house because no one could afford to move out and have their own house.
Family of William Noy of Sudbourne c.1900 Another reason everyone lived together was because Grandparents needed looking after. As Mum stayed at home to look after everyone, Dad’s wage would not be enough. Therefore children often worked in dangerous jobs to bring in another wage for their family. Nowadays, families are smaller, as its just normally Mum, Dad and their children that live in one house. Sometimes Grandparents live close by and help out.

Lots of Victorians stayed at home to do the cooking and sewing because it was cheaper to make their own clothes. Girls often helped to wash the family’s clothes and make breakfast or tea. Boys had to help their dads and work hard. There wasn’t much time for playing. Nowadays, children go to school and are looked after by their parents, and have lots of time to play.

An extended family, including grandparents
outside their house c.1910