Benefits of Getting a Job as a Teen
Getting a job as a teen can be a very positive experience with many benefits. Only you and your child know what is right for you and your family. But if your child would like to work, and academically it will not affect them, there are many productive aspects that can come from your teen getting their first job.
Responsibility
Obviously, it teaches them responsibility. They must be professional, show up on time, do what they are required to do, follow instructions, provide a service, and get along with co-workers. It’s a responsibility that is different than home and different from school. It makes them feel like an adult and it helps them learn a new skill in a different environment. It is a big responsibility to have a job as a teen, and some kids are ready for it! Sometimes responsibility that is chosen can translate into a very meaningful experience.
Independence
A job can really help your teen gain some independence. This new endeavor can be a breath of fresh air for them. It helps them have a new outlet, instead of the usual home and school life. They can put their focus and talent into something that is just for them, that only they can understand and only they can figure out. Moms and teachers cannot assist this time; they must do this on their own and prove to themselves that they are capable.
Friendships
Friendships outside of their usual friend circle can be a welcoming change. Friendships found at work can vary with different ages, different interests, and different backgrounds. You can vent to your work friends about your school friends (on a break of course). You can find new things in common, find new interests, and just open yourself up to new people! This can be a wonderful thing, and they may find themselves enjoying the freedom of friendships that do not require school drama (yes, please!).
Interacting with Adults
Most teen jobs will require your child to interact with adults, not that they’ve never interacted with adults before, but in a much different capacity. They will have to learn to be respectful, kind, make eye contact, speak clearly, and mostly……stay calm in challenging situations. They will inevitably deal with some really great people and maybe some not so great people. This will be vital experience for the real world, where difficult people are abundant. It’s a great idea to get a head start learning how to handle challenges at a young age, while they are still super forgiving and resilient.
Presentable
No matter what jobs may be on the horizon, it will understandably be a job that will require your teen to look presentable. Whether it is a uniform, casual clothing, or even possible professional clothing, this will also teach your child about how they want to present themselves in the real world. This gives them a chance to “fix themselves up,” look presentable, and take an interest in their own self-care. Whether it is an after-school job or a weekend gig, they will have to think differently about how to dress and how to prepare themselves for the job they will be doing.
Earnings
There is nothing better than when your child starts to make a little money. They won’t be able to help pay the bills (insurance help, please!), but they certainly will have a little extra for that Starbucks or Chick-Fil-A craving. They may even be able to pick themselves up a new shirt or two. Just the simple fact of having to learn how to have the money deposited in an account or possibly opening their own account will be a worthy incentive. Now would be a great time to discuss spending and saving habits, and how to budget their earnings. What a necessary life lesson!
The Bottom Line
Maybe getting a job can be an outlet that your child might be craving. It can take them away from being on their phones, being constantly connected to their friends, and get them out of their rooms! There are many positive aspects to being out in the world, talking to new people, becoming knowledgeable with specific responsibilities, and earning a little money.
Personally, I remember getting my first job at 15 years old, and I thought I was BIG TIME. It gave me confidence I never knew I had and became something I looked forward to more than anything. I believe my work ethic started developing at that very young age and to this day, I still feel pride when I talk about that first job. I was able to save up my money to buy my first car at 16 years old. It was a 1983 Toyota Celica: hatchback, stick shift, with 153,000 miles and no air conditioning. But it was all mine, and I loved it!
It might not be the right time for everyone, and we certainly don’t want to over schedule our teens or interfere with academics or extra-curricular activities. However, some teens might be ready for a pleasant change and could benefit greatly from a new adventure.
For information about getting a Workers Permit in Louisiana, please visit this website for more information!
