Parenting a cocky, disrespectful teenager is challenging, and different parents use various strategies to encourage better behavior.
One mother, Heidi Johnson, wrote a handwritten letter to her son, Aaron, and posted it on Facebook. She didn’t expect it to go viral; her intention was merely to share it with friends. Despite this, she doesn’t regret the public nature of the post.
In the letter addressed to her 13-year-old son, Johnson expressed her frustration with him treating her like a “roommate” rather than his mother. She included an itemized bill for rent, food, and other expenses, totaling over $700. She told him that if he was going to treat her like a roommate, she would reciprocate in kind.
Johnson signed the note with “Love Mom,” and her love for her son is genuine. She followed up with another post to provide some context and reassure critics that she never intended for Aaron to actually pay the bill. Instead, her goal was to instill a sense of pride in his home, his space, and an appreciation for the blessings they have.
Johnson clarified that the note was meant to help Aaron understand the costs associated with living independently. It was a lesson in gratitude and respect, intended to show him what life would be like if she were merely a “roommate” rather than his mother.
She also shared that the note was written after Aaron lied about doing his homework. When she mentioned restricting his internet access, he responded, “Well, I am making money now,” referring to his small income from his YouTube channel, which was insufficient to cover food and rent.
The public note has not negatively impacted her relationship with her son. Johnson stated, “He and I still communicate openly, and he has apologized multiple times.”
Since posting the note, Johnson has received advice-seeking messages from other parents. She commented, “My post seems to have opened a door, allowing people to come to me for advice, to vent, or simply to share their experiences. It’s been rewarding to listen and offer support in return.”