Summer Jobs will teach you about money!

I can't speak for everyone here, but when I was growing up way back in the 1970's summer jobs where a must-have if you wanted to have a bit of pocket money for the holidays. Summer jobs where crucial for 'most' university students if they were to see their way through college. But I think the best thing that comes out of youngsters working is that they gain an appreciation and healthy respect for money.

Today's parents, not all but most, are better off financially then they've ever been in their life. Parents, as parents do, always want to give their kids what they never had, but does this 'spoiling' do anything to help their brood grow up with a better attitude and outlook upon life in general? I think not, and I personally think that kids should be asked to do a little work here and there rather than just receive hand outs.

There are still millions of kids worldwide that do seek summer jobs, but the numbers are down quite considerably compared to a generation or 2 ago. Kids, if you're reading this short piece, I can tell you that there's nothing more rewarding than having a pocket full of money that YOU earned through your own efforts.

It's a great feeling to know that you only have this money because of something you did. Anyone can receive a handout, there are no special skills or qualifications necessary, but it's only by working and earning your own cash that you will gain those crucial money management skills later on in life when you need them the most.

There's this misconception that summer jobs for teenagers are restricted to working at a retail outlet or at a fast food restaurant. This is not the case at all and with a little imagination and persistence, you can quite easily find a whole bunch of fun and profitable ways to keep yourself busy over the summer holiday period.

For example, if you want to be out in the open, then take a look at the part time job opportunities at the local parks. The maintenance crews are always looking for a bit of extra help during the summer months. As a teenager, you might also want to look into the possibility of becoming an assistant camp councilor. This type of work will go a long way on you resume as employers just love to see applicants that have a bit of get up and go and potential leadership qualities.

Other summer job opportunities might include window cleaning, cooking jobs, garden centers, theme parks, pool maintenance, yard work, baby sitting, or just good old door knocking to see if the local residents can use you for a bit of decorating, regular dog walking, shopping and the like.

The possibilities really are only limited by your imagination and you will get more out of your summer working experiences than just money. You will meet and interact with other people outside of your peer group, add another sting to you resume bow, keep fit, and most importantly, learn about money.