BY BRITNEY DENT 

Some studies show that teens who work part-time jobs have lower grades and higher risk for issues like alcohol and drug abuse. Other studies show that early employment leads to higher graduation rates and increased lifetime earnings. What’s a parent to believe? 

It turns out that there’s some truth on both sides of the argument, and the choices you make can help determine the outcomes. Read this before your children ask you if they can mow lawns or work at the mall. 

Managing the Downsides of Part-Time Work for Teens 

1. Limit the hours. Most of the negative outcomes for teens who work are associated with putting in more than 15 hours a week. As long as you stick to 15 hours per week or less during the school year, you can eliminate most of the risks for a decline in school performance or forming questionable new friendships. 
2. Write out a budget. Another potential drawback is the tendency for teens to pick up extravagant spending habits that will be tough to break when they’re in college or settling into their first home. Make a plan for how to use their paychecks responsibly. 
3. Emphasize safety. Some jobs pose more hazards than others. You may want to give your approval for tutoring and counseling at summer camp rather than delivery or construction work. 
4. Research labor laws. Federal and state laws regulate the hours and type of work that minors can do. Ensure you follow the rules for work permits and other requirements. 
5. Visit the workplace. Take a first-hand look at where your son or daughter will be employed. Introduce yourself to their new boss. Observe their co-workers. 
6. Put academics first. Remind your teens that completing their education is their primary job. Agree in advance that being permitted to work is conditional upon maintaining their grades and participating in school activities. 

Maximizing the Benefits of Part-Time Work for Teens 

1. Develop soft skills. Dealing with a demanding boss and dissatisfied customers instills qualities like punctuality and patience. It’s a good complement to classroom education. 
2. Save for the future. While your teens may want to keep some of their paychecks for buying burgers and music, encourage them to put aside money for something more lasting. The funds will come in handy as tuition costs or living expenses rise.
3. Review career plans. If possible, consider a job that aligns with your child’s interests in sports medicine or ethnic jewelry. They’ll feel more motivated and may even find a mentor. 
4. Practice job hunting. Just looking for a job is valuable training. Your children can practice browsing job boards, filling out applications and interviewing before they face the financial pressures that come with living on their own. 
5. Gather references. Wherever your sons or daughters work, their supervisors can provide positive recommendations for college applications and future jobs. These early contacts can be the beginning of your children’s professional network. 
6. Provide supervision. Are you concerned about what your teen is doing in the hours between school letting out and your arriving home from work? A shift at the local coffee shop will fill that time. 
7. Teach diversity. A part time job can be a unique opportunity to introduce teens to a wide variety of citizens from different backgrounds. 

As a parent, you can guide your children toward making their first work experience a rewarding investment in their future. Hold down the number of hours and discuss responsible budgeting, so they’ll be prepared for academic and career success. 

Teen Part-Time Job Opportunities

Here are some local jobs that teens deem favorites. Minimum age requirements are next to each business, however, check with each place as they may vary from location to location. 

• Jimmy John’s (16 in store; 18 for drivers) 
• Rockin’ Jump (16+)
• Panera Bread (16+) 
• Best Buy (16+) 
• Target (16+) 
• Chuck E Cheese (16+) 
• Lowes Foods (16+)
• Harris Teeter (16+) 
• J. Crew (16+) 
• GAP (16+) 
• Starbucks (16+) 
• Lifeguard
• Chick-fil-A (15+) 
• Subway (15+) 
• Publix (15+) 
• McDonald’s 
• AMC Cinema (14+) 
• Baskin Robbins (14+) 
• Ben & Jerry’s (14+) 
• Dairy Queen (14+) 
• Publix (14+) 
• Childcare/Camp Counselor

Starting a business is also a viable option for teens. Not only does it look great for colleges and future employers, but it can be incredibly rewarding (and sometimes lucrative), as well. Here are some popular entrepreneurial ideas for teens: 

• Babysitting
• Lawn Care
• Dog Walking
• Pet Sitting
• Washing Cars
• Yard Sale/Consignment
• Mother’s Helper
• Errand Runner