So, your teenager wants a job this summer. Okay, maybe you want your teenager to want a job this summer. Regardless of who wants what, not every gig will be best for your budding entrepreneur, and you’ll want to consider your teen’s readiness for a job before your future income earner acquires a work permit (under 18 years of age) and executes mock interviews.
Personally, I think you’ll know your teen is ready for work when they keep asking you for money, but Founder and Parent Coach at Teen Savvy Coaching, Samantha Straub’s expert opinion is that, “…teens are ready for a job as soon as their schedule allows, and they can find someone who will hire them.”
For the extroverted teen, service jobs such as a Food & Beverage Team Member (age 16+), Host/Hostess (14+), Barista (16+), Ice Cream Scooper (16+), or Grocery Store Cashier (14+) are engaging and lucrative with life lessons.
For the teen who prefers a shell of shyness, options like a Busser (16+), Grocery Store Stocker (16+), and Library Assistant (14+) may be the perfect pairing. Straub observes that, as a former educator, part-time work can be a self-esteem builder, “…especially for kids who are disinterested or who struggle academically.”
For the teen who enjoys setting an example, working as a Babysitter (13+), Camp Counselor (16+), or Tutor (14+) could be a great segue into a teaching career.
For the fashion-forward teen, a Store Associate (16+) position at any retail or beauty shop would give them significant shopping discounts and the likely benefit of sales training.
For animal-loving teens, check out jobs such as a Junior Dog Walker (14+), Kennel Attendant (16+), or Veterinary Assistant (15+).
For the outdoorsy teen, a summer gig as a Lifeguard (15+), Lawn Mower (16+), Amusement Park Attendant (16+), or Car Wash Crew Member (16+) might be a great match.
The profits are not limited to monetary value when it comes to summer employment. “Part-time jobs provide real-world problem-solving, in-the-moment social skill-building, accountability, and a sense of self-efficacy,” suggests Straub. Whatever path your teenager chooses, encourage exploration and they’re bound to thrive in any environment.
Author: Liza Roe
Liza Roe is a writer and award-winning spoken word artist. You can find her book, “The Sober Poet” and her online video course, “Learning to Live an Amazing Alcohol-Free Life in 7 Simple Steps” at www.lizaroe.com. She currently lives in Annapolis with her dog and pet rabbit.
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