25 Unwritten Social Rules Poor Kids Had To Learn While Growing Up

"Don't ask for anything because you won't get it."

Chelsi

• Published in Interesting
• July 1, 2022

We often hear that we are all given equal opportunities in life and if you don't make it to the top, it's your fault. The reality is we are not born into the same circumstances.

The opportunities that are open to us are not the same and lead to very different paths. Some of us won the lottery of life and were fortunate enough to be born into wealthy families.

The lucky ones never have to worry about asking for the food they want, buying clothes that are current, and attending the schools of their choice. There is a lot of privilege and comfort that money can buy.

On the flip side, for those of us who got the short end of the stick, food insecurity, hand-me-down clothes, and an uncertain academic future are normal. Kids are forced to face their difficult realities early on in life.

If you are from an economically poor background you were most likely given responsibilities that are well beyond your young age. A childhood like that revolved around school and home life.

Your parents may not be vocal about your family's financial struggles but you definitely picked up on the unspoken burden they carry. There were certain rules kids from poor families had to learn while growing up.

Rich kids will never understand these fundamental rules but the answers to this question can shed a bit of light

1. Other people can't know about your situation at home

2. Do not answer the door or the phone and keep the curtains closed because debt collectors can come knocking anytime

3. Skipping meals is not unusual or a diet regimen, it was necessary because there simply isn't enough food

4. The routine is school then home. There's no such thing as piano lessons, martial arts or dance class.

5. You have to look presentable at all times. Your clothes may not be on trend but they were definitely clean.

6. Keep the air conditioning off unless there's company because it will run the electric bill up

7. Same with the heater, the answer to keeping warm inside the house during winter is layers

8. Legal fees will bankrupt the family so don't do anything illegal

9. Unless you're bleeding to death, we do not go to the doctor

10. Dental work is even more expensive than regular medical check-ups

11. There is no such thing as wasted food. All leftovers can repurposed into another delicious dish.

12. You can't go on school trips and you shouldn't even ask because you don't want to make your parents feel bad

13. Food delivery is not an option

14. You can't have friends at the house for sleepovers

15. Your worthy possessions could potentially be pawned when money is tight

16. Your parents can't afford childcare so that becomes your responsibility

17. Dreams are impractical and they are just for suckers and rich people

18. Don't ask for anything, ever unless it was offered to you

19. If you want a shot at a better life, you have to do well in school

20. Buying expensive clothes or anything at full price is unacceptable

21. Don't let anyone look down on you with pity

22. Reusing things, including plastic bags, will save you a lot of money in the long run

23. Your house may be small and your things may be inexpensive but they are all in pristine condition because that will make them last longer

24. Your parents had the ability to make the cheapest and flavorless food the best meal of your life

25. Be mindful of your portions so everyone can eat and dad (or mom) can have some to bring when they work

Growing up poor shouldn't be romanticized. It's difficult and it literally affects the brain development of children.

Nothing about poverty is easy and yes, you can work your way out of it but it's not as simple as they would like us to believe. You will definitely learn a lot of ways to get your money's worth but growing up poor also comes with its own set of psychological baggage that will take years to resolve.

Chelsi