Having a summer job can be highly beneficial for kids for several reasons. So, I gave my son the task of starting his own small business in our community this summer to earn money and keep busy in a productive way. I directed him to focus on something he had an interest in that could also be done all on his own and that neighbors needed. He settled on a Plant Watch Service for when our neighbors were traveling. It quickly grew into doing more than just tending to the plants because people saw he was dedicated and worked hard. He added services of weeding, mail retrieval, setting out garbage/ recycle and even walking pets!
Not only was he thrilled to make money during all this free time but now he has built a successful business that doesn’t stop now that summer is over! He learned so much by working (more than even realizes). Here are some reasons I encourage any child to get some form of a job — whether it is just for the summer, just weekends or continual, the lessons will pay off for life:
- Developing Responsibility: Summer jobs teach children responsibility and accountability as they have to show up on time and fulfill their commitment.
- Financial Literacy: Earning money and managing finances can help kids learn valuable lessons about budgeting, saving, and spending wisely.
- Time Management: Balancing work with other summer activities like vacations or social engagements teaches kids time management skills.
- Building Confidence: Successfully handling responsibilities and earning money definitely boost a child’s self-esteem and confidence.
But more than anything, my twelve year old son truly experienced the Value of Hard Work for the first time. He has heard me preach it, but through this job, which turned into an ongoing business, he was able to personally understand the importance of a strong work ethic in achieving his goals. This will take him through life long after the memories of this first job responsibility fades. There are no limits to success when you have mastered all these skills as a child!
If you live in Babcock Ranch and want to support a young entrepreneur, check out his services: Stay’n Alive and give the page a follow!
Ah yes! Growing your sense of responsibility as well as accountability will be very good for him! A job, be it in the summer or not, teaches us to get work done, with the most few excuses as possible.
These are great lessons and very important for everyone and it’s good that your son learned them. Time management is something learned after a while.
It’s wonderful to hear that your son was able to experience the value of hard work through his first job and ongoing business. It’s one thing to hear about the importance of a strong work ethic, but actually experiencing it firsthand can leave a lasting impact. It’s great that he’s learning these skills at a young age, as they will undoubtedly serve him well throughout his life and help him achieve his goals. There truly are no limits to success when you have the discipline and work ethic to pursue your dreams.
Such an inspiring read! Your approach to guiding your son in starting his own summer business is truly commendable. It’s heartwarming to see how he learned invaluable life skills through hard work, responsibility, and dedication. A fantastic example of nurturing growth and self-discovery. Kudos!
Loved reading about the summer job lessons! It’s great how work experiences can shape us. Which lesson do you think will have the biggest impact on your son’s future?
Probably that not all aspects of a job you enjoy will be fun, but it can still be rewarding. And none of it starts out easy!
I wish my kids could start working now because I know they would gain so much. Accountability being a great one. Great job Mom!
These are all great lessons we can learn. Working part time has also given a lot of opportunities to grow and most especially build my confidence.
This is such a fabulous post! Essentially working for yourself and starting a small business will teach so many invaluable life skills. Your son looks like he has a proper green thumb!
I know that one of the best things my parents did was to find me a summer job – several of them. I think it’s a great idea to get young adults more able to face the world.
That’s awesome your son started a business at 12. He sounds like an entrepreneur who will certainly continue to be a dedicated worker and rising star!