Back when I was still a full-time classroom teacher, I was firm about not having my child attend the same school where I teach. I know this sounds idealistic, especially since it’s practical for many parent-teachers to have their children close by. I just couldn’t ignore the possibility that my child would unfairly benefit from being “Anak ni Ms. Ria.” I would never want my child to grow up in my shadow.

In today’s language, I didn’t want to raise a nepo baby, a term for a child who gains an advantage or head start simply because of their parents’ status, power, or resources. We’ve called out public figures and unfollowed influencers over nepotism, especially in light of the recent corruption issues in the Philippines. And while we may not hold the same position or power, have we ever stopped to consider whether we might be raising nepo babies ourselves? Here’s how it happens.

Continue reading “Are We Raising Nepo Babies Without Realizing It?”