Summer Jobs
Just wondering, what's the general opinion about kids and summer jobs? Is a 14er too young, should they be allowed to enjoy the care-free fun of summer days before becoming enslaved in the work-force like the rest of us? What about 16? If you drive, shouldn't you be paying for your own gas? I feel like I've had a job since I was 5.
I got my first "real" job when I was 13: a plate scraper in the busiest steakhouse in town. I got yelled at every time I left too much butter on the plate before sliding it over to the dishwasher. Everybody should have a really crappy work experience as soon as possible so they know why they're going to college.
I think most kids would have a better time working during the summer than just lazing about the house. Especially a job with other young people around--lifeguarding, or working at some place that's only open seasonally.
My daughter keeps looking for that Empire Records job (movie about awesomely awesome kids working in a cool, fun record store), but instead keeps punching the clock at the pizza joint. My first job was at a flower store where I had to wipe out all the coolers with bleach twice a day. It was where I realized how much adults actually sit around and gossip when they're "working".
I think a 14yr old should be able to enjoy the summer. It'll probably be his last once he gets a job. Once he's 16 and is able to drive he should be the one paying for gas unless he's running an errand for you....at least that's how I was brought up. Then again, I think it also depends on a bunch of other things. Are you more concerned with him spending his time on school than a job? If so, and he's going to be driving then no, I don't think he should pay for the gas. I was raised where a job is more important than school (at least it seemed that way). With my kids I plan on buying them a economical safe car and paying for their insurance. They will know that the car and driving are a privilege and if they screw up that will be taken away. Hope that helps.
Kelly Reynolds
Work at Home
If I can do it so can you!
www.freedomathometeam.com/kreynolds
My kids have started working at 'real jobs' at 15 though if they could have would have started at 14. IT is okay in my view because you can really help them out to fight battles if they need to! IT gives them the support they need if their bosses try to work them too hard etc...
-Clare W
www.myhomecottagebiz.com
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