Lia, a lawyer living in New York, USA's affluent Upper East Side, stated she typically does not allow her two children to sit in first class or private jets when traveling. Instead, she buys economy class seats for them.
The traveler believes that children who have not yet earned their own money, yet repeatedly witness hard-working adults walk past their seats to occupy less comfortable cabins, can "cause psychological issues". She fears her children would become arrogant early on.
"That inadvertently sends a message to a child's impressionable mind that they are of a higher class than those hard-working adults. I don't want my children to think that way", Lia said.
Lia explains why she doesn't let her children sit in first class. Video: TikTok/Onelitmama
She believes the feeling of social stratification is even more pronounced when children fly on private jets. "When completely separated from others, children will gradually believe they deserve special treatment and are superior", she added.
This view contrasts with the habits of many other wealthy parents in the Upper East Side. Previously, one mother complained her son had to fly economy class with his soccer team. Another controversial case involved a parent buying a business class ticket for a 9-month-old baby on an 8-hour flight from New York to Zurich, Switzerland, leading to many passenger complaints about crying.
Lia stated that while she doesn't spoil her children with luxurious travel amenities, she still provides them with a full life, including a beautiful home, quality education, and travel to many countries.
"I believe it's good for children to experience inconvenience and hardship", Lia said, asserting that learning patience and enduring discomfort are crucial for building self-confidence and adaptability in real life.
Lia's perspective has met with mixed reactions. Some argue that experiencing luxury from a young age doesn't make children arrogant; instead, it motivates them to work harder as adults. Others shared that similar parenting styles made them feel unloved by their parents, leading to years of therapy.
Conversely, many parents expressed support. Many agreed that this parenting philosophy should be applied more widely, not just by wealthy families.
"I truly admire how she raises her children", one person wrote.
Anh Minh (According to NYP)
