AITAH for threatening to take my kid's hedgehog back to the breeder? My (40f) child (13m) has been struggling in school. I've tried everything. This week, I've gotten multiple emails from his teachers about rude and disrespectful behavior. He's not doing his school work in class.
He's been begging to be homeschooled. I believe he thinks I'm going to be an easier teacher. I expect a LOT more. I've been trying to find employment that would make it easier for me to homeschool.
I'm at my wits end.
Last year for his birthday I took him to a breeder to get a hedgehog. I made him a deal that he buy the hedgehog and toys, and I'll buy the food, bedding, etc. He worked mowing lawns for a couple years to afford his new pet and had been consistent with wanting one. I made sure he researched the care of hedgehogs and asked him a lot of questions to make sure he was aware of the responsibility.
Now, like I said, I've tried everything. I don't expect good grades but I do expect effort. He simply doesn't care. After this last email I came home and told him that if he doesn't get his grades up and at least tries (2 Fs and a D) by the end of the year, I will be calling the breeder and take the hedgehog back.
He threatened to run away. My youngest (10m) is threatening that he'll hate me forever and never speak to me again.
I need some outside perspective on if I'm the AH.
ETA
Yup, I'm the asshole. Kinda figured. The hedgehog stays.
ETA UPDATE
So I don't have to repeat myself. I apologized to him. Told him what I did was wrong and will never do it again. Told him I'm sorry and I need to do better. He confessed he's been getting harassed/bullied by a couple of kids. Asked him which classes, which happen to be the ones he's really struggling with. His eyes got big when he made the connection. Told him the plan is to get him to a therapist for an official diagnosis (AuDHD/ADHD) so we can set up an IEP. I'll be sending an email to the teachers tomorrow to make them aware of what's happening in class and will include the principal.
Thank you everyone who responded with empathy rather than venom.