A note left by a mother on her son’s “disrespectful” door has gone viral.
Heidi Johnson of Temple, Arizona, used a unique strategy to deal with her 13-year-old son Aaron’s disdain and disregard for his schoolwork. When he claimed his profits from YouTube absolved him of home duties, she put a thorough message on his door. The note included a fictitious “bill” for living expenditures that included chores and a $30 maid fee for any unfinished work, in addition to $116 for rent, $21 for internet, and $150 for meals.
Greetings, Aaron Given that you appear to have forgotten that I am your dad and that you are just thirteen,Johnson’s note, which emphasized Aaron’s attitude and the responsibilities that go along with his apparent freedom, said, “I guess you will need a lesson in independence.”
Reactions to this tough-love strategy on social media were divided. While some praised Johnson for teaching responsibility, others thought her techniques were excessively severe. Johnson said, “I wrote him a ‘bill’ to make a point,” in defense of her position. Nothing is given out for free. At some point, someone has to give up something.
A wider discussion about parenting, accountability, and preparing kids for adulthood has been spurred by Johnson’s experience. Her email concludes with a reminder of her love and authority, highlighting how parenting requires striking a balance between care and discipline.
