Parenting a cocky, disrespectful teenager is tough, and different parents have various approaches. Heidi Johnson, a mom, shared her method on Facebook in a handwritten letter to her 13-year-old son, Aaron. She didn’t intend for it to go viral but doesn’t regret it.
Johnson reprimanded Aaron for treating her like a “roommate.” She itemized a bill for rent, food, etc., totaling over $700. Her message: if he treated her like a roommate, she’d do the same. Johnson clarified, “I want him to take pride in his home, his space, and appreciate the gifts and blessings we have.”
The letter was to teach Aaron the value of money and respect. It followed an incident where Aaron lied about homework and boasted about making money from YouTube. Johnson’s note was a lesson in gratitude and respect.
The public note didn’t hurt their relationship. “He and I still talk as openly as ever,” Johnson said. Parents have since sought her advice, appreciating her openness.
