KimR said:I think it depends on how demanding their schoolwork is and/or how many extracurricular activities they are involved in. I do think teenagers should be doing something constructive with their free time rather than just 'hanging out'. My DDs will either be involved in sports, performing arts, school clubs, volunteer work, or have a part-time job.
I agree totally. I wasn't involved in anything other than church youth group as a teen and I didn't really work very hard in school - B's and C's and an occasional A with no work. SO, my parents forced me to get a job at McDonald's my junior year and it was the best thing that ever happened to me. I learned the value of money, responsibility, and I had a blast! Heck - I met my husband there! I think that if kids are not involved in outside activities a job is the right choice and a summer job is right for all kids in my opinion. Those lessons are so important!