My son is 20 years old, strong and healthy (thank God), works full time and makes decent money. He gives me some money out of each check, but our arrangement had been that it would be a low amount and he would do a few chores around the house. Recently, between work and an active social life, he has neglected his chores almost entirely. Here's my question: would it be better to charge him more money and do the chores myself (easier) or force the issue? Opinions?
2006-11-21 11:34:22 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Parenting
I would increase the rent, but you should let him know that increasing his rent doesn't mean that he has more of a right to wreck your house. If he wants to be a total slob then he can get his own place. Its not really fair that he get to have cheap rent and have a maid (aka: mom) too. He should appreciate that he has it easy right now.
Its stuff like this that makes me wish I lived closer to my parents...I would give anything to mooch off of them again!
2006-11-21 13:38:15 · answer #1 · answered by tangyterp83 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Clearly it's time to re-negotiate the terms of the contract. Sit down with him and offer the options that are acceptable (and preferable) to you.
Examples:
1) Increase his rent by 25% and eliminate the chores,
2) Keep the rent the same, reaffirm the exact nature of and deadlines for the chores to be done,
3) Insist he move out if he cannot respect the terms of the contract (he'll not find a sweeter deal anywhere else, that's for sure!)
4) Keep the rent the same, but create a different list of chores that he can accomplish on a more flexible schedule (instead of vacumming, he has to clean out the garage)
good luck!
2006-11-21 19:47:32 · answer #2 · answered by teresathegreat 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
i agree that you should charge him more money. To really make the point, find out how much a cleaning person/handyman (whatever the chores involve) would charge and tell him that you are going to charge him that much money more per chore, per month because you are picking up his slack. It may not inspire him to do the chores, but it will teach him that nothing comes cheaply, even living at home. And, you will have a little extra cash.
2006-11-21 19:48:26 · answer #3 · answered by Lizzy 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Tell him that if he is not going to pull his share around the house you will have to charge him more. Let him know there are no free rides in life.
2006-11-21 19:39:54 · answer #4 · answered by Ryan's mom 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Well, I never. A young man that won't do his chores? I haven't seen that since I was a 22 yr old young man, or is it my 22yr. old son...can't remember.
Your a good mom, you let him do his thing. If you want him to work, tell him you'll make him a cake or something he likes. But long term, it doesn't get much better as most posters will confirm.
The truth hurts girls.
2006-11-21 19:39:18 · answer #5 · answered by Joe Schmo from Kokomo 6 · 0⤊ 3⤋