This is why I treat kids with respect and understanding. Everyone I meet may know something I've never even considered, and it's worth the time to at least hear them out. It also means that kids tend to trust and respect me without me needing to try to assert any authority, so that's good.

I'm envious! They at least try. My mom usually buys something new, continues to use the old one till it breaks or not at all (if I don't intervene). Because attaching a hdmi cable and power cord is too much hassle to even start thinking about. I've only last week connected her old cd player and amplifier that was still standing there after she moved 3 years ago. I would do it sooner but she even hates it when I start doing. Oh and not like she's actually going to use the audio equipment.. Radio on the TV sounds just as good, obviously.. Ah when she was moving I discovered she had a whole new stereo set still in boxes that she never bothered to even unpack! You know, in case the one she wasn't already using died or something..

Boomers.

Parents being dicks to kids because "ow, my pride!" Is SUCH a pet peeve. Sorry you had to deal with that, broski