Poor kids and their families frequently rely on public transportation as their primary mode of getting around. They are well-acquainted with crowded buses, long commutes, and the limitations of not owning a car. Rich kids, who often have access to personal vehicles or chauffeurs, may never experience the daily struggles of navigating public transit. Poor kids become masters at hiding stress. You learn to smile even when there’s nothing in the fridge. You learn to joke around even when the lights get shut off. You learn to act normal at school, even when your home life is anything but.
Living in poverty can foster a sense of insecurity and uncertainty about the future. Poor kids may worry about their family’s financial stability and their own prospects for success. In contrast, rich kids often grow up with a sense of financial security and a clear path laid out for them, making it challenging for them to understand the constant anxiety that can accompany poverty.
