Teen summer jobs could build life skills

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Thousands of teens across the state have stepped out of the classroom and into that summer job.

“You’ve got young people out there getting those first jobs and earning money and learning how to manage that money they earned,” said Junior Achievement of Douglas Country District Director Debbie Harmon.

Junior Achievement is ready to assist with budgeting that first paycheck and building skills that can pay off in the long haul.

“It’s establishing a budget, setting up a budget for yourself, understanding that there are some expenses that you’ll have and putting those down and making sure you able to pay for all of those fun things you’re going to want to do if it is just through high school,” said Harmon.

Putting aside money can prepare you for any financial emergencies and future expenses you’ll experience as an adult.

“Our program says to ‘pay yourself first’ so put a little money away first and then you can budget the money that you’ve earned after you’ve paid yourself first. Whether it’s $10, $25, or $50 that starts to add up,” said Harmon.

Harmon says shopping smart can save your money for the real treasure.

“Just don’t buy the first thing you see, you know comparative shopping is super important today but not just buying that first thing that you see,” said Harmon.

Be cautious of your credit early so it doesn’t catch you off guard in the future.

“The choices they make with money now when their young are crucial in creating that credit history for them. So using that credit card wisely, paying those bills on time, those are all things that are going to give them that great credit history and give them buying power in the future,” said Harmon.

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