Don’t Try to Parent Like the Rich if You’re Poor
As parents, most of us want to love and spoil our children and give them the very best. No one wants their children to suffer or be disappointed. Many parents would endure hardship and sacrifice their own comfort for the sake of their children.
Some parents, having grown up in difficult circumstances and achieving success despite them, will go to great lengths to ensure their children don’t experience the same struggles. They provide their children with the best of everything, only to be met with disappointment later in life when their children, now adults, are still dependent on them and unable to stand on their own two feet.
This overprotective and indulgent parenting style can sometimes backfire, hindering a child’s ability to become self-reliant. By trying to keep up with their peers and provide their children with more than they can realistically afford, parents may inadvertently raise children who are materialistic and ungrateful.

Don’t Fake Wealth When Parenting
Spoiling your children out of love and trying to pave the way for them can sometimes do more harm than good. It can lead to children who are out of touch with reality and unable to appreciate the true value of things. They may become superficial and lack the inner strength and confidence that come from knowing and accepting one’s true circumstances.
Some families, despite their limited means, will go into debt to buy their children the best of everything to keep up with their peers. This is often unnecessary and places undue pressure on the family.
Parents work hard, not just for themselves but mostly for their children. However, giving them everything they want can foster a sense of entitlement and lead to resentment when the children are unable to meet their high expectations. It can also give children a false sense of security and an unrealistic view of their family’s financial situation.
Children from wealthy families with a strong foundation are often provided for but not spoiled. They understand the value of money because they see their parents working hard for it. In contrast, children from less stable financial backgrounds may be given everything they want without understanding the effort and sacrifice behind it.
If You’re Not Rich, Parent Like You’re Not Rich
A child growing up in financial hardship can still thrive if they are taught the value of love, compassion, and hard work. Instead of constantly saying “no” out of a sense of helplessness or irresponsibility, parents should be honest with their children about their limitations.
It’s important for parents to communicate that, while certain things may be beyond their reach, they are still committed to finding solutions. Emphasize the importance of money but also teach your children that it is not the only measure of worth. Expensive doesn’t always mean better.

Poverty of Resources is Less Harmful than Poverty of Methods
Good parenting involves showing your children that happiness and fulfillment don’t always require spending a lot of money. To do this, you must be a confident and financially literate parent yourself. Value money, but don’t let it become your sole pursuit. Overcome adversity with the resources you have, no matter how small.
For example, if other families are spending lavishly on Mid-Autumn Festival, take your child to the outskirts of town where they can truly appreciate the moon, unobscured by city lights. Instead of buying an expensive lantern, make one together. Add a personal touch to your child’s outfit instead of buying a new, expensive one. These simple acts teach your child to find joy and creativity within their means.
While it’s important to set financial boundaries, don’t deprive your children of the things they need. Don’t be overly frugal, and don’t make your children feel guilty about your financial situation. Good parenting strikes a balance between frugality and extravagance, teaching children to appreciate money without becoming obsessed with it.
Avoid constantly comparing your family’s financial situation to others, as this can make your children feel inadequate and unworthy. Instead, focus on creating joy and working hard to provide for your family. Teach your children that money can buy some things, but true happiness and fulfillment come from within.
When financial resources are limited, it’s crucial to spend time with your children and discover their strengths. Offer praise and encouragement, and be there to support them when they face challenges. Help them understand the difference between needs and wants, and instill a sense of financial responsibility by not giving them everything they ask for, especially if it’s beyond your means.
Some poor parents raise successful children, while others struggle with rebellious offspring. What matters most is not the amount of money you have but how you perceive and respond to your financial situation. The same is true for wealthy families—some raise successful children, while others see their wealth squandered by the next generation.
3 Parenting Careers That Are Unassuming Launchpads for Children’s Success
A parent’s occupation has a profound impact on a child’s development and can shape their future success. Numerous studies and real-life stories have shown that certain occupations, which may seem ordinary, can act as a powerful “launchpad”, propelling children towards exceptional achievements and setting them up for a brighter future.