Jobs-Finding the Right Job for Your Teen
Teenagers love to have their own spending money, especially once they get their driver’s
license. But as parents you should know that there aren’t very many jobs out there that
provide a good, safe working environment for teens. You want your teen to find a job
they enjoy, but that doesn’t teach them bad habits, or interfere with their schooling. Here
are some tips that you can use in helping your teen find a good job!
As you may already know, there are lots of laws in effect regulating the employment of
teenagers. Certain jobs require teens to be of a certain age, and some require that they
have written parental permission as well. Teen labor laws are different for each state, so it
is a good idea to do your homework, to learn what laws apply in your state, before your
teen even starts thinking about jobs.
Teenagers under the age of 16, in most states, are limited to work only 3 hours each day,
even on non-school days, and can only put in around 18-20 hours each week. In other
states, when school is on break, or on weekends, 15 year olds may be allowed to work
longer hours, but no later than 9pm, again varying by state.
You will likely have to obtain a worker’s permit from your local labor board, or
sometimes, your county Department of Social Services. This paperwork has to be signed
by you, and filled out by your teen’s prospective employer, before he or she can begin
work.
At the age of 16, more jobs are available to your teen, including restaurant work, as long
as there is no alcohol on the premises. It is a good idea to talk with the management of
these establishments, to find out exactly what kind of environment your teen will be in,
before you allow them to accept a job.
Talk with your teen about what types of jobs he or she might be interested in, and work
together to try to find open positions in that area. Daycare centers often hire teenagers in
the afternoons, to help with after-school care, and this is a good work environment for
your teen. Your local YMCA or even elementary schools may have similar positions
open.
Whatever jobs interest your teen, be certain that you teen understands that their education
should be their top priority. No matter how much they enjoy working, don’t allow this
job to become more important than their education. If you, as a parent, see this
happening, step in and take some corrective action, even if it means making your teen
resign.
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