That may mean seeking employment for your teen through contacts of your own. Crandall spoke with friends who run an ice cream shop about her daughter applying to work there over the summer. There may be boys who come in, but I know I can trust the people behind the counter. Even if you can't control the environment quite that closely, you still can get a feel for the atmosphere. An occasional drop-in visit for a burger might be in order.
Safety is another consideration.
Although we can't control the unexpected, we can be sure our kids apply for jobs in areas with less crime. And on another safety note, if you agree your teen can work construction, landscaping, or a related physical-type job, you'll want to make sure the employer is licensed and carries proper insurance. Those documents aren't awarded without inspection for appropriate equipment and good safety precautions. Check with your teen's high school for an application. In the case of a job in food service, the employer will have information for obtaining a food handler's card through the local Department of Health.