Just made him get a job at the hardware store instead of playing video games all summer. He's upset but he'll thank me later. My old man did the same to me and it shaped who I am. Not trying to be cruel, just think a man needs to earn his keep and understand that responsibility. Anyone else doing this with their teenagers?
This is the right call even though he hates you right now. Character building isn't supposed to feel good at 16. In five years he'll get it. Is he at least making decent money?
Hardware store is solid, man. My oldest did retail his first job and it taught him more about showing up and dealing with people than anything else. The video games will still be there in a few months.
Ice cream run after his first week of shifts might help smooth things over. Trust me, a little recognition goes a long way with frustrated teens.
Your son might surprise you once he gets his first paycheck. That's usually when it clicks for them. Good call passing on what your old man taught you.
Hardware store job is perfect for a 16yo. He'll learn more from that than sitting home. My oldest worked retail and actually came home respecting what we do for them. Stick with it.
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I respect the commitment here but also curious - did you give him any choice in the job or was this your decision? Just asking because my co-parenting arrangement has taught me that buy-in matters.