Blog

Image From: PR Image Factory/Canva Pro

Article By: Kelly Kirk-Xu & Emily Stevens

Every parent has faced the dilemma between teaching their children about responsibility and making sure they embrace their childhood while it lasts. Of course, federally, children under the age of 14 are considered ineligible for employment. Even then, children under the age of 16 who are working have strict limits on the hours they are allowed to work.

However, just because a child is of age to get a job does not necessarily mean their parents are ready to send them headfirst into the workforce. Many parents would prefer their child focus on school, extracurricular activities, and embracing their youth.

It is hard to deny the benefits that can come with a job, though. When a child works for the money they spend, they will develop a more profound sense of the value of a dollar that will benefit them in adulthood.

Every child’s availability will differ depending on their extracurriculars, class difficulties, and numerous other factors. However, working before adulthood can offer a multitude of benefits to your growing child, including:

• Motivating them to learn money management skills.
• Teaching valuable life skills.
• Instilling a sense of independence and responsibility.
• Encourages them to advocate for themselves

There is no universally perfect age for beginning to work. So how can you tell when your child is ready for a job? A few signs include:

• They are federally of age
• They have the availability
• They have developed practical time management skills
• They are craving a chance at independence
• They have built resilience

While your child doesn’t have to fully develop all of these skills, seeing the start of these skills being built can be a great sign that your child is ready to get a job. The great part is that working for their own money will only strengthen these skills!