It seems as though enthusiasm for earning some extra cash is rising among young entrepreneurs. Summer is the season for mowing lawns, babysitting, and lemonade stands. Let’s take a look at what parents should consider as their kids look for ways to keep busy and earn some spending money this summer.
One of the first things to think about is the safety of the kids. Parents need to provide guidance in this area. We’re not speaking about the typical idea of safety like the “lawn-moving rules of the road…er, of the lawn.” In our world today, parents have to be concerned not merely about the possible damage a piece of machinery might do, but the possible danger from people too. One suggestion is to limit your kids to finding odd jobs only in your neighborhood where you know the folks they will be working for.
Of course there are also safety concerns with jobs that can themselves pose danger. Parents need to be certain the job-hunter has been adequately trained. Determining if a teen or tween has the maturity demanded for mowing someone’s lawn, for example, is not simply based on age. Experience is another important aspect as is emotional maturity. Parents should evaluate all those elements.
There are many benefits for the kids when they find a summer job. The most obvious is the money that will be made. When a young person earns money, they have the opportunity to learn important lessons about saving, spending, and giving. For example, you teenager may have the opportunity to save for and purchase something that is not in the family budget. Tithing and giving are very positive things these wage-earners can experience.
Being rewarded for a job well-done (which is what the receiving of a paycheck actually represents) builds both confidence and self-esteem and acts to encourage hard work and excellence. Col 3:23 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters…
Do your kids have a summer job?
