DD13 to get a job or not to get a job??

[diannescruffy]

Here in Vic it has changed back to 15, personally I think 13 is too young.

Regards,
Dianne

[Arimeh]

Wow I must be living in the dark ages - I thought it was still 14 and 9 months. I'm counting it down until my kids can get jobs....

I wouldn't let them work at 13 though, only because I remember what I was like as a 13 year old lol

[Jaycee]

Personally, I think 13 is way too young. 15 is more appropriate, but that's just my opinion. I agree with your DH, she has her whole life to work!

[LionsandBears]

If she wants to work, let her work. She may thrive or she may hate it and try again when she's older. I wouldnt do anything to discourage a kid developing a work ethic though. Good on her! It will teach her responsibility.

It will also be a good opportunity to teach her some financial skills, like saving. I'd say she can work if she agrees to put 10% of her net income into an untouchable, high interest, online account that only you know the password to.

[Mildez]

That's a good idea L&B about the account. My friend's parents made there daughter save for a car and what she saved they matched it (she had been working for a few years then) so I was going to offer that to DD also. Id be happy to buy her one but she would get a better one if she could contribute a little herself. Maybe I'll tell her she can apply late this year and have the school Christmas holidays to have a trial. I did read somewhere that at 13 you cant work after 7pm which is good if its true.

[nothing2lose]

I think part time work builds character and a sense of responsibility. As long as she can balance it with her other responsibilities (homework, chores, etc), it's a great idea!

[nickle730]

I agree with L&B's but I would be inclined to enforce 50% savings!

[~clover~]

My DD is 11 & I'd already love to send her down to the local supermarket or somewhere to stock shelves. To me I'd be happy for her to do it for free as work experience. I think kids need to learn what its like to have a job at a young age, to give them that work ethic. And so they appreciate things more.

If it was to happen & she was to get paid, DD would be not only putting in towards savings, but I would even consider asking for some towards the costs of living. Learning to pay bills is just as important as learning to save IMO (coming from an ex who just doesn't bother)...

[Mildez]

That's my concern Dianne that 13 is too young especially for my DD who is an immature 13. But she really really wants a job and we aren't in the position to give her more then a few dollars here and there and when we do tell her she can earn money she can't follow through with the task although for someone else I am sure she could.