Many teens work for extra money but rarely are
their earnings used as a contribution to the
family’s economic wellbeing. Research of teen
employment reveals that costs for
transportation, clothing, and food away from
home actually increase with teen employment.
Involving teens in family problem?solving helps
teach them the reality of managing money and
distinguishing between needs and wants. Asking
teens to help with household expenses will need
to begin with an open sharing of a family budget,
income, and needs. They need to know that their
financial help is appreciated. Help your teen:
• Analyze expenses and income from their job.
Do the costs outweigh the benefits to
themselves or the family?
• Develop a budget that includes earnings
going toward savings, family budget (if appropriate), and teen
expenses.
• Plan and budget for wants like
entertainment, vacation, or trips. Consider what part the teen’s money will play in family vacations or other purchases. Teens will
learn the value of saving over time for wants.
More Tips for Parents:
• To reduce potential negative impacts for
employed teens, limit their work hours during
the school months to 10 hours a week.
• If a teen is contributing to family
efforts, consider reducing them from some family chores.
• Ask their help to problem?solve/determine
other cost?cutting goals for the family.