July 3, 2003

 

Parents and Teens Should Work Together to Find First Job

Summer is in full swing and teenagers are looking for ways to get out of the house and make money. However, now is the time for parents to teach their teens how to manage and budget that first paycheck, says a North Dakota State University Family Economics specialist.

"Many teens are surprised to find out how much of their paycheck has been withheld for taxes, and that they now need to budget for the first time," says Debra Pankow, NDSU Extension specialist. "Parents should take this time to help their children understand basic money management and plan a budget for how they plan to use their earnings."

Pankow says the National Consumers League offers these tips for parents:

• Be involved. Before searching for a job, make decisions about appropriate employment. Set limits on how many hours he or she may work per week.
• Check it out. Don’t assume the job is safe. Every workplace has hazards. Meet the supervisor, request a tour of the facilities and inquire about the company’s safety record.
• Talk, talk, talk-and listen. Make sure your child knows you are interested in his or her part-time job. Frequently ask your teen what he or she did at work and discuss any problems or concerns.
• Watch for signs. If a summer job continues into the school year, ask teachers to let you know if grades start to slip. If there is a loss of interest in or energy for other activities or school, the job may be too demanding.
• Know the laws. Child labor laws exist to protect your teen. Check with state and federal laws.

"A summer job is an invaluable experience for many teens," Pankow says. "A successful job is more apt to occur if parents and teens work together to find a job suitable for the teenager."

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Source: Debra Pankow, (701) 231-8593, dpankow@ndsuext.nodak.edu
Writer: Stephanie Renner, (701) 231-8371, srenner@ndsuext.nodak.edu
Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231-6136, rmattern@ndsuext.nodak.edu