If you have teenagers, you know how challenging it can be for them to find decent jobs that fit into their schedules. They have to work around their school schedule and sports or other extra curricular activities, as well as trying to work around your and your family’s schedule, if they need a ride to and from work. All that extra driving back and forth can also be expensive with today’s gas prices.
If your teen doesn’t have his or her own car, should you be responsible for rides and for the expense? Should your teen be required to chip in for gasoline? What about contributing to other household expenses?
Many parents don’t require teens to make a contribution, but instead allow them to keep the money they earn. Some kids spend it readily while others save for a car or for other purchases. I have never asked my daughter for any of the money she earned, but I do insist that at least half of every paycheck be deposited into her savings account.
I’ve had other parents tell me that she should at least be paying for some of the gas required to take her back and forth so she can work. At this point, I may have to include that rule out of sheer necessity, but I’m curious how other parents handle this situation.
I do believe that kids should learn to save and budget rather than spending every dime they earn as fast as they can. I also don’t believe in bailing them out if they fall behind on bills because they overspend. When my daughter had her own cell phone, she alone was responsible for the bill. While I can see helping out in extreme situations, I don’t think we do kids any favors when we enable them to be irresponsible with money.
First jobs can be difficult but they can also be great learning experiences for our kids. From being present and punctual and taking pride in one’s work to learning how to manage money responsibly, a first job can set the tone for a teen’s work ethic and spending habits for years to come.