Would You Pay Your Kid to Take a Break from Facebook? This Dad Did!

This enterprising dad figured out a way to managing his teen's time on Facebook. Is this the most brilliant parenting bribe ever?

Does your kid spend more time interacting with her friends via social media than she does talking to her family? It might be time for a Facebook intervention -- complete with signed contracts, no less.

One Boston dad is willing to pay up if his daughter, 14, can manage to stay off the site, Mashable reports. If she makes it to April 15, she'll get $50. 'Til June 26? She'll get $150 more.

To mark her commitment, Paul Baier and his teen both signed a contract titled "Facebook Deactivation Agreement" (he posted it on his personal blog).

The contract states that Baier will be given his daughter's password so he can deactivate her account. And what will she use the money to buy, should she keep her end of the bargain? "Stuff."

Comments to Baier's blog post range from disgust ("You're an idiot, Paul. Why not try something called 'parenting.'") to kudos ("A parent who cares and is actively involved in his daughter's life is a wonderful thing. Two hundred dollars is a very small price to pay for better grades, more time with the family, etc.") to cynicism ("What's stopping her from opening another account in a different name and still getting the money?").

We say we're certainly not above a well-intentioned bribe for our kids now and again -- and think this teen has some pretty keen entrepreneurial spirit going on. Facebook is fun. But -- who are we kidding here? -- stuff is awesome. What do you think?

Leave a comment below!

Like this? Want more?
Sign up for Pregnancy & Newborn
FILED UNDER:
Comments See all
Is your kid on Facebook?
Chime in now!
    Advertisement
    Connect with Us
    Follow Our Pins

    We love style on a budget, DIY projects you can do with your kids (or yourself), parties, FOOD, home decor (that functions and looks good), hairstyles and so much more! Curated by iVillage Staffers...

    Follow Our Tweets

    The very dirty truth about fashion internships... DUN DUN @srslytheshow http://t.co/wfewf

    On Instagram

    Real time pics from iVillage staffers. Follow us for behind-the-scenes at the office, NYC sightings, celebrities, food, fashion, nails, and more!

    Advertisement