As a teen, I had a few part-time jobs while in school. I don’t want my kids to do the same.

I got my first job, sort of under-the-table at a business owned by my dad, at 13.

Then, I worked various part-time jobs throughout high school. My family emphasized the importance of a solid work ethic and learning to manage money, even if I haven’t always been perfect at the latter. Starting work young taught me responsibility and how to get along with different types of people.

Surprisingly, I’m not thrilled about my two 15-year-old teens getting jobs. They’re about to start their sophomore year and both are eager to work. One of them asks me about getting a job nearly every day. So far, I haven’t allowed them to apply for a job anywhere and I’m determined to stand my ground on this issue.

I started by discouraging summer jobs

This year, I discouraged them from getting summer jobs, citing family travel, sports camps, and the often-true “Businesses don’t want to hire 15-year-olds,” line. The state we live in state allows 15-year-olds to work, but many businesses don’t hire until 16 due to extra restrictions.

Those reasons are real, but honestly, I’m just not ready. It’s not that I don’t want them to learn the value of a dollar or develop a work ethic. They already do odd jobs at home to earn money, and we use the Greenlight app to teach money management and investing.

I didn’t forbid summer jobs, I just wanted summer to feel like summer. These are the last years they’ll get carefree breaks with time to rest, be bored, play outside, reset.

“You’ll be at tennis camp this week and visiting family for those weeks,” I argued. “By the time all that’s over, it’ll almost be time for school.”

I won this summer, but as we gear up for back-to-school, the topic of after-school jobs is back on the table.

I want my kids to prioritize school

“Your job is school,” I tell them. We expect good grades. They’re student athletes, and while I know they could likely manage a job too, I don’t want them burning the candle at both ends.

And selfishly, I don’t want to be responsible for two non-driving teens’ work commutes. I already feel like live in my car. I also want them around. With everything else going on, I barely see them during the school year.

A couple of weeks ago, we stopped by a neighborhood eatery and spotted a “Help Wanted” sign. They asked to apply. I said yes. I watched them approach the counter, one at a time, and return to the table, clutching their applications like golden tickets. We went through the job applications together and decided not to apply and to table the discussion until after the fall sports season ends.

I remember when jobs and college decisions were “someday” things. Now, someday is here. I’m proud of the adults they’re becoming. I’m not trying to pause time, but I wouldn’t mind if it slowed down just a little.

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