Benefits of Summer Job for Teen Boys

Of course, the first thing that comes to your son's mind, on the prospects of having a summer job is... money. He might focus on what he'll earn, and what he can buy, but as a parent, you should know that the benefits go beyond the pay cheques.

Potential character-building-lifeskills that a summecr job might instil within your son's heart and mind... (BTW, also applies to daughters)

Having a boss: A boss is way different than a parent or teacher. A boss tells you what to do (which is similar to a parent or teacher). However, with a boss, there's no room for argument (unlike the aforementioned, who tend to listen/tolerate, ready to explain/instruct). There's a nurturing presence with parents and teachers, which is typically (often by necessity) lacking in a boss.

If a young employee's thoughts run contrary to the instructions he is given..., and should this young employee decide to argue in defense of his ideas..., then guess what... this particular young employee may not have his job for long.

Teens feel comfortable at home (rightly so) and they like to have their say (Think: voicing their complaints, whining, attempting to reason etc., you get the idea.)

For your teenage son... this new 'work experience' can be an eye-opener.

The boss is right. That's it. Whether the boss is actually right or wrong, has nothing to do with it. He or she is right, by nature of the fact, that he or she is the boss.

Your son figures that out out quickly! Hopefully! Or..., there goes the job!

Self-discipline: Showing up, to work, on time, no excuses... requires a great deal of self-discipline.

Now, if you are the type of parent who makes sure he gets there on time -- you prepare his lunchbox, you set the alarm, you yell at him until he finally gets up, you make his breakfast, etc., then...well...you are the one who is self-disciplined (but you already knew that).

However, if he takes the initiative for all of the above, then he already knows a thing or two about being self-governing (congratulations... mom & dad... you've already done something right along the way).

But..., like most teens, he might need some pushing, reminding, and so forth..., but hey, that's all part of what a summer job can do for your son.

Thanks to you... and thanks to the job... your son is developing a strong character trait.

Discretion: If there is ever a place to learn that it is best to keep your mouth shut, and not get caught up in gossip and slander -- it's at work.

• when to report a problem from when to let it go

• how to speak in a manner that does not offend

• not contributing to rumours or spreading private information

These are things that are best learned through experience. Sure, you can explain all of the above, but words are only words until they make sense. The daily practice of discretion, is where the necessity for it is learned.

Team work: Seems obvious, but as many of us can attest, the workplace is frought with problems, because many people lack the skills to be quality team members.

'Getting the job done', may sound like the most important thing (and it is), but how co-workers 'get the job done', is where the joy of employment truly shines.

In the hustle and bustle of work..., people often get their toes stepped on, they get offended, and so forth. Learning how to navigate through difficulties, without the hurt feelings, is a great lifeskill to develop.

Endurance: An eight hour day, with only two fifteen minute breaks and an hour for lunch is a lot for your son to get through at first.

No checking in with his friends, via social media avenues, is a big deal. Is that even possible? (Ha-ha)

To do a proper job, requires focus..., your son will learn that his phone is a distraction he cannot afford, if he wants to do his job well, get paid, earn a good future reference, and basically...not get fired.

Humility: Sports can build a sense of pride and accomplishment ... and that's great. Work can build upon this as well, but there's more.

Your son will come to recognize his abilities to follow instruction, to practice self-control, to be responsible, and accountable for his actions.

This requires not pride, but rather humility. A humble person can be told what to do, and be willing to do the job he is being paid to do.

Days Off: Reading is still a great way to relax and enjoy some much needed quiet time. In her book, Stick to Irons, by Suzanne Rightley, one teen discovers that the challenges of making career decisions, is harder than he thought.

But thanks to his friends, family, and... his summer job..., he'll learn a lot about himself and what his future may hold.

Thanks for visiting.