What is the contrast clue words In this paragraph

In those days, the forties, children were not just loved or liked; they were needed. They could earn money; they could care for children younger than themselves; they could work the farm, take care of the herd, run errands, and much more. I suspect that children aren't needed in that way now. They are love, doted on, protected, and helped. Fine, and yet....

The contrast clue words in this paragraph are "In those days" and "I suspect that children aren't needed in that way now."