Every summer, kids get out of school wanting to live their best lives with no worries in the world. That doesn’t mean it is time to slack off and waste valuable time sleeping in and playing video games in the basement. I think kids should get a job over the summer and maybe even keep that job during the school year.  Here are a few reasons why.

Some people may think that summer is the time for kids to have fun and not worry about a job or school. That doesn’t mean there is no time for work; while also helping teenagers grow as people, work can be a bonus. 

“Teenage work experience is linked to personal growth,” said the UNC School of Medicine.

Teen employment encourages a sense of responsibility, time management and respect in teenagers. Working in the summer could give your sons or daughters less time for extracurricular activities and sports, but the lessons learned from employment at a young age will stick with them for the rest of their lives. Jobs in high school allow kids the freedom to buy fast food with their money and make more decisions on their own.

“Allowing your teenager to build a financial portfolio early gives them the opportunity to learn the value of money while also learning how to manage their financial responsibility,” said WebMD. “Whether it’s budgeting for finances, saving for future goals, or understanding taxes, these financial skills are extremely important for navigating through adulthood.”

A study published in the Journal of Adolescents states that employed teenagers gain valuable people skills through interactions with coworkers and customers, enhancing their communication and teamwork abilities. 

Some may argue that their teenager has no time for a job because they have extracurricular activities and other commitments standing in their way. Well, I’m here to tell you that the lessons learned from teen employment will influence you for the rest of your lives.

For example, if you are responsible for your actions, when you show up late for work, you accept the consequences. Also, learning how to be a part of a team, such as when closing for the night. Everyone pitches in and does their part to close on time.

Employment empowers teens. It empowers them to take control of their finances, to develop essential life skills and to become responsible members of society. Through employment, teens gain invaluable experiences that shape their character and prepare them for the challenges of adulthood.