Dealing with her 13-year-old son Aaron’s rude behavior and lack of attention toward his homework, Heidi Johnson of Temple, Arizona, discovered a creative solution. After he claimed his income from YouTube cleared him of any domestic responsibilities, she chose to leave a detailed letter on his bedroom door. Along with responsibilities and a $30 cleaning fee for incomplete tasks, the note listed a false “invoice” for living expenses including $116 for rent, $21 for internet, and $150 for food.

Hey Aaron, I am the parent here and you neglected to mention that you are just thirteen. Based on Aaron’s behavior and the responsibilities involved in acting independent, looks like you need a reminder about being independent.

Online readers disagreed on Johnson’s tough-love approach. While some supporters appreciated her teaching duty, others felt her approach was too rigorous. “I gave him a ‘bill’ to show a lesson,” Johnson said to clarify her thinking. Nothing is free in this world. Someone must ultimately give something up.

Johnson’s experience has spurred a more general conversation on parenting, what it means to be responsible, and how to equip children for the demands of growing up. Her message ends with a reminder that she imposes boundaries and is a loving parent, therefore stressing the crucial blend of discipline and affection in healthy parenting.