They wanted to sweep, mow, or water the plants for me. Now, when I ask my teenage son to do one of these things, I get a groan or a moan and a million reasons why this isn't a good idea for him. Gone are those days when mom was the little helper! 10. If you want to get attention…bring on Christmas – Nothing gets my son's attention faster than talking about Christmas presents. Of course, I might not plan on doing any Christmas shopping around that time… but hey, they don't need to know that now. I know, it's ugly... but smart. Simply put what you would like for Christmas, followed by well, that might not happen if you don't mow the lawn. Next thing you know your lawnmower is purring... driven by a reluctant teenager who really wants an iPhone.