A Texas couple, Erica and Cody Archie, have sparked a heated debate on social media after revealing that they charge their 19-year-old daughter, Kylee Deason, $200 a month to live at home. The decision was made in 2022 after Kylee decided not to attend college after finishing high school.
According to Cody, the idea was to teach Kylee the value of responsibility and paying bills. “Our thought together is that since [Kylee] has graduated, I told her… I been telling her, ‘June the first, our rent’s due if you continue to live here,'” Cody explained in a viral video.
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While Erica initially thought the idea was a bit harsh, she ultimately agreed with Cody. “200 bucks a month is plenty cheap to live like a grub in your parents’ house,” Cody added. “That’s cheaper than she eats in food.” Erica chimed in, “We think it teaches them a good lesson in paying bills.”
The couple’s video sparked a mixed reaction from viewers, with some agreeing with their approach and others labeling them as “bad parents” and “selfish parents.” Some argued that charging rent was too harsh, especially for an 18-year-old fresh out of high school. Others suggested alternative approaches, such as putting the rent money into a savings account or using it to teach Kylee about credit and responsibility.
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As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Erica and Cody’s unorthodox approach has sparked a necessary conversation about parenting, responsibility, and the challenges of raising independent adults.