In a viral TikTok, it was again suggested parents burn fake presents when their children are acting up and it again divided the internet.
The supposed parenting hack has been recirculating in various farms annually since a video of the suggestion first went viral in 2016. While the advice is dubious, the internet clout is real.
The latest version reached 21.1 million views and 2.2 million likes on TikTok.
TikToker Bennyg7070 posted the video of someone putting an empty, wrapped box into a small fireplace or stove.
The caption read:
"Christmas is coming, and here is a sure fire way to ensure your little darlings behaving proper."
The text over the video said:
“With Christmas approaching, here is a top tip for parents."
"Wrap up some empty boxes and pretend they are presents.
"Then each time one of those little f*ckers misbehaves, chuck one on to the fire."
@bennyg7070 Christmas is coming, and here is a sure fire way to ensure your little darlings behaving proper. #christmas #hack #lifehack #fire #children
Of the thousands of comments, many believed this was a recipe for disaster.
@thedutchhijabi/TikTok
@bigsisjunko/TikTok
@joelene_rose/TikTok
@ditterlin/TikTok
@felicityrobinson55/TikTok
@frotmega/TikTok
@user4313435095991/TikTok
@robbydontsurf/TikTok
Others saw merit in coercion.
@genxparty/TikTok
@callme_courtney/TikTok
2mrmistyeyesedits/TikTok
@dailymols/TikTok
@shortxstuff/TikTok
Some people just thought this was a joke and decided to join in on the dark humor.
@lylons/TikTok
@azzarij_/TikTok
@triplejoint/TikTok
@lukexd25/TikTok
This video could not have been more dividing.
Which was probably the real point.
@PreetBharara/X
@RepBrendanBoyle/X
@twesq/Bluesky
@christopherharris/Bluesky
@evangelinewarren/X
@FrankC164/X
AMC