Employment

Many teenagers work while attending school. A parent can help a teen see the
advantages and disadvantages of part-time employment. Are teen jobs positive or negative?

• Jobs can help shape a teen's future:
  • Employment can be a wonderful introduction to adult responsibility.
  • Adult supervisors can serve as mentors. They can offer advice about
    career options and future education requirements.
• Jobs also can do some harm:
  • Teens may make money more important than school or social activities.
    Students should limit employment to less than 14 hours per week.
  • A bad experience can affect the teen's lifelong attitude toward work.
    

Some questions for parents to consider:

• Must your teen work for financial reasons?
• Can your teen work and maintain grades?
• Can money come from parents as an allowance or payment for chores?
• Does the teen know the value of a dollar? Will the job help teach this?
• Is there a career goal involved?
• Should working be limited to the summer?
• What are your state's rules for employees under the age of 18?
• Consider volunteer work
  • A teen can learn about real jobs in many fields.
  • The habit of volunteering can last a lifetime.
• Think about job-related injuries
  • Teens sometimes are asked to do things for which they are not trained.
  • They are not experienced enough to recognize danger.
• Know what your teen's job duties are. Will there be job training?
  • Point out your concerns. Talk to the employer if necessary.
  • If the work is hazardous, steer your teen to a safer job.

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