Every Board of Directors at one time or another has had to deal with children who break the rules. This is particularly true in homeowner associations that have a concentration of elementary and middle school kids. They scrawl graffiti, skateboard at all hours and places, pull fire alarms for fun or run amuck in the pool. Does the Board have an obligation to discipline such behavior? No, however, since these activities often result in personal injury or damage to the common area, action is called for.

The governing documents give the Board authority to require parents to control their children. It’s the same kind of authority which allows the Board to hold landlords accountable for actions of renters. If someone’s child misbehaves, the board can penalize the parents as if they personally did the deed. That approach is better than trying to set some kid straight. Allow the parents to do the correction by “encouraging” them with fines and repair costs.

However, it’s also important for the Board not to get overly legalistic. Kids are a very important part of a homeowner association and they have rights which should be respected. If there is an issue that affects many community kids (like places to play basketball, rollerblade or skateboard) why not hold a special meeting to hear their side of it? Such a move will help the kids own their actions.

Another way to get better cooperation is to budget for several age appropriate social events and ask the kids to help with the planning. Kids can be very enthusiastic and creative if given the opportunity. Give them press in the newsletter, or better yet, let them produce their own “Kondo Kids Newsletter”. Have them write the stories and distribute it door to door.

Rather than rule over the kids, find ways to make them positive contributors to the community. Give them ways to be productive instead of destructive. And try to catch them doing “good” things. It’s a lot cheaper and less stressful than chasing vandals. Kids Rule!

Inspired by an article by Marilyn Lincoln, author of “The Condominium Self Management Guide”

For more information on this subject, see www.Regenesis.net.

Published: May 22, 2002

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Richard Thompson owns Regenesis, a management consulting company that specializes in condominium and homeowner associations. He is a nationally recognized expert on HOA management issues. Regenesis publishes The Regenesis Report, a monthly newsletter for HOA boards, developers and managers. To subscribe, go to Regenesis.net. He can be contacted by email at .