• As a teen, I had a few part-time jobs over the years. I don't want my sons to do the same. • They are eager to work, but I want them to prioritize school and family time. • For now, we've agreed to revisit the job discussion after the busy fall sports season.
I got my first job, sort of under-the-table at a business owned by my dad, at 13.
Then, I worked various part-time jobs throughout high school. My family emphasized the importance of a solid work ethic and learning to manage money, even if I haven't always been perfect at the latter. Starting work young taught me responsibility and how to get along with different types of people.
Surprisingly, I'm not thrilled about my two 15-year-old teens getting jobs. They're about to start their sophomore year and both are eager to work.