Some teens do it to help the family, and most do it to have their own money to spend. Although summer jobs are great, teens should recognize that they're more than what they earn and buy. They have talents and skills to offer their community, which leads to the third suggestion of volunteering. Urge them to volunteer. There are many places in the community that need help.
Volunteer work enables young people to work to address community issues.
In doing so, they develop personal, intellectual, academic and social skills. It may also increase teens' awareness of community issues, while strengthening their sense of service to others. A meaningful volunteer experience will help teens become effective employees, citizens and leaders. Many teens have turned their volunteer experiences into full-time careers. Whatever your teen does for the summer, encourage him or her to make the most of it.