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Happy Female Cashier At Cash Counter
Happy Female Cashier At Cash Counter
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Tearing movie tickets at AMC, flipping burgers, and folding T-shirts have long defined the rungs of teen employment. But beyond the thrill of the first paycheck and chance for independence, teens who work part-time jobs reap real-life lessons that can prepare them for adulthood. 

Working a part-time job during high school translates to better wages later in life, according to the Employment Policies Institute. 

A study from University of Virginia economist Christopher Ruhm found that part-time work as a high school senior can lead to future career benefits that include higher hourly wages, increased annual earnings and less time spent out of work even after three decades. 

However, some studies show that working while in high school can be disruptive to teens’ academic performance and mental health. 

A 2011 report by the Society of Research in Child Development found that teens who work more than 20 hours per week are at a higher risk for emotional distress, substance abuse and a decline in school performance.  

Because the teen labor force in the United States has changed so dramatically over the last few decades, numerous teens have taken part in internship programs, many unpaid. 

An internship can be a way to build skills, provide hands-on experience and help refine career goals. 

But not all teens have the luxury of choosing whether or not to enter the workforce. In some low-income families, teens start their first job to help pay bills. The United States Department of Labor’s website, osha.gov/youngworkers, provides real stories, a breakdown of teens’ rights while on the job, possible hazards and other resources.

During high school, teens are growing from dependence on parents to independence. Helping your teen find part-time work is one more step toward raising a responsible adult. However, if possible, parents should limit their teen’s hours on the job.

The benefits of a
part-time job:

The value of a being paid: A paycheck is a concrete incentive to keep a teen focused and on track. 

Contributing to an organization’s success: Reporting to a job regularly and being part of a staff can provide belonging and meaning that a teen may not find in school. 

Responsibility and time management: With regular work hours and structure outside of the home, a teen can learn the value of hard work, accountability and commitment. 

Social and work skills: School obviously provides valuable learning experiences with interpersonal relationships and study skills, but a part-time job can also enhance these skills. 

Mastering skills: Typically, work skills are different than academic skills. Even if your teen is not going to continue working in the field of her part-time job, mastering a vocational skill can build confidence.

Managing money: Teens need to be taught how to handle finances. Income from a part-time job should include the responsibility of learning healthy financial management. 

Gaining experience: When your teen has to meet the demands of a job, he or she will learn responsibility and professionalism that can carry over into a future vocation.