BY & FOR BOY MOMS EVERYWHERE

Many parents ask their kids, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” expecting playful answers like astronaut or superhero. But as kids grow older, their responses can catch us off guard—either because they have ambitions we never considered or because we have no clue what the job market will look like when they enter it, making the concept of a childhood dream job both nostalgic and challenging. In a world of evolving careers and gig economies, how do we guide them toward meaningful employment and financial responsibility?

The Concept of Dream Jobs

The idea of a dream job has fascinated people for generations. A dream job is more than just a way to earn a living; it’s a career that aligns with one’s passions, interests, and values, bringing a deep sense of fulfillment and happiness. For many, these aspirations are rooted in childhood dreams, whether it’s becoming a professional athlete or a successful business owner.

Dream jobs are highly personal and can vary widely from one individual to another. Some might dream of the thrill of being a professional athlete, while others might find joy in the creativity and independence of being a business owner. It’s important to recognize that these dreams are subjective and can evolve as we grow and our interests change.

My Son Wants a Job, and I Have No Idea Where He Should Look…

When kids are little, they dream big. One day, they want to be pro-footballers, the next, they’re determined to become graphic designers. As supportive (esp. millennial!) parents, we encourage these dreams, knowing that reality will eventually shape their realities. But when my son recently asked where he should work, I realized I had no idea where to direct him.

How do you guide a child from whimsical dreams to practical opportunities?

Common Childhood Dream Jobs

Children often have grand visions of their future. They imagine themselves exploring space as astronauts, saving lives as doctors, or fighting fires as brave firefighters. Some dream of shaping young minds as teachers, entertaining the world as musicians or actors, or even designing the next big video game. With social media shaping modern aspirations, many kids today also see themselves becoming YouTubers or influencers. But they don’t realize how much time and training they’ll need to invest to get there, nor how impractical or short-lived some of these careers are for most people.

However, many of these childhood dreams often give way to more practical considerations, and many Americans find themselves starting their first full-time job in fields like food service or retail.

We can also teach them work ethic and the value of a dollar (or pound, peso, or yen) by encouraging them to get practical first jobs. I wondered how to help my son shift his expectations without dampening his enthusiasm. Encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit early on, even in small ways, can help children learn responsibility and financial independence while still keeping their dreams alive.

Age-Appropriate Jobs for Pre-Teens

For pre-teens, job opportunities often come in the form of small responsibilities that help them develop a work ethic. Babysitting for family or neighbors, pet sitting, helping with yard work, or even running a small lemonade stand can instill a sense of responsibility. Some creative kids may even try selling homemade crafts, foods, or artwork. It is even easier to do it online with parental supervision these days.

Pre-teens benefit from volunteer opportunities, such as assisting at community centers or helping with younger kids at local school or recreational centers. These experiences teach them valuable interpersonal skills and expose them to different types of work environments and people they might not otherwise meet. By the time they reach their teen years, they are more prepared for structured jobs that are more demanding.

As teenagers grow older, more formal job opportunities become available. They can take on roles in retail stores, grocery stores, or fast-food restaurants. Many find jobs as camp counselors, lifeguards, tutors, or movie theater attendants. Many teenagers also find their first jobs in the food service industry, working as cashiers, kitchen staff, or servers, which provides valuable experience in customer service and teamwork. While these positions may not be glamorous, they provide valuable lessons in customer service, time management, and teamwork. Additionally, working a job as a teenager can foster independence and a strong work ethic, helping them navigate their future careers with confidence.

Don’t forget that your city and state may have programs to help young people land their first job, and similarly they have limitations on the kinds of jobs and number of hours children can work at certain ages. Do your research!

The Easiest Job to Get at 15

For many 15-year-olds, the easiest jobs to secure are those that require minimal training or experience. Fast-food restaurants frequently hire young workers as cashiers or kitchen staff. Grocery stores often have openings for baggers or stock clerks. Other common first jobs include dishwashing in restaurants, working at an ice cream shop, or assisting at a local movie theater.

Starting a new job can be both exciting and daunting for teenagers, as they navigate the responsibilities and expectations of their first employment experience.

Many local businesses also offer part-time opportunities. A small boutique might need someone to organize stock, while a bakery might need extra hands to package baked goods. These positions not only provide a paycheck but also teach essential workplace skills, like punctuality and communication.

Preparing for a First Real Job with Resume Confidence

Parents play a crucial role in helping teens prepare for their first job. Assigning chores at home and enforcing time management help instill responsibility. Assisting with resume-building, even if it’s just listing volunteer work or school activities, can make a big difference. Building resume confidence is crucial, as many teens may feel uncertain about their qualifications and experience when applying for their first job. Practicing interview questions together can boost confidence, while discussions about budgeting and saving will encourage good financial habits. Helping teens navigate job searches, complete applications, and network within the community can make the process less intimidating.

Another way to help is by teaching professionalism. This means discussing appropriate workplace behavior, the importance of a positive attitude, and how to handle workplace conflicts. Many teens don’t realize how vital these skills are until they enter their first job.

What Are the Best-Paying Jobs for Teens?

While most teen jobs are not known for high wages, some roles pay better than others. Freelance web development, social media management for small businesses, private tutoring, and lawn care services can all provide solid income. These jobs require a bit of initiative and skill-building, but they can be excellent stepping stones toward more lucrative careers in the future.

Jobs that require critical thinking, such as freelance web development or social media management, can also provide higher wages and valuable experience.

Working as a golf caddy or at a theme park during peak seasons can also bring in higher wages due to tips and seasonal demand. Some teens even make money selling handmade items on platforms like Etsy, proving that there are many ways to earn a good wage while still being creative.

The Top Jobs Kids Aspire To

Surveys show that kids today have a diverse range of career aspirations. Many still want to be doctors, teachers, and police officers, but newer trends see kids dreaming of becoming YouTubers, video game designers, and entrepreneurs. The world is changing fast, and technology continues to shape the kinds of careers that excite young minds.

Securing a well-paying job nowadays often requires a combination of education, skills, and experience, which can be challenging for young job seekers.

These aspirations also highlight a shift in how children view job satisfaction. Many are drawn to careers that allow them creative freedom, flexibility, and the ability to make a difference. This shift suggests that traditional career paths may need to evolve to align with new expectations.

Jobs to Approach with Caution

While every job can provide valuable experience, some may not be ideal for teenagers. Unregulated online gigs, for example, often come with risks of scams or exploitation. High-risk labor jobs without proper training or personal protective gear can be dangerous.

Parents should also be cautious about jobs with unfair wages or conditions, ensuring their teen’s well-being and education remain top priorities.

Working late hours or in environments with little supervision can also be a red flag. Some workplaces may take advantage of inexperienced workers, so it’s essential to review job conditions and expectations before allowing a teen to accept a position.

Also, remember to check the kinds of benefits and protections afforded to your child. Things like health insurance, social security withholdings, mandatory (or optional) retirement or pension savings may be the last thing on their minds. But if your son or daughter is your legal dependent, these kinds of wage matters may come up on your tax return. If you can’t decipher their earning and leave statements, then ask to talk to their manager to understand what’s what.

The Reality of Pursuing a Dream Job

Chasing after a dream job can be both exhilarating and daunting. Many people encounter hurdles and setbacks along the way, which can lead to feelings of discouragement.

The journey to a dream job requires more than just passion; it demands dedication, hard work, and a willingness to overcome obstacles. It’s crucial to be realistic about the challenges and to continuously develop skills and gain experience.

However, helping your child land their first job can help them set realistic expectations around how long it may take to pursue their ideal role, how hard they will have to work, and how much work they may need to accomplish before receiving a compensation package that they like.

The Future of Jobs: What Might Disappear?

As technology evolves, many traditional jobs may no longer exist in the coming decades. Positions like cashiers, data entry clerks, and travel agents are already being replaced by automation and AI. Print journalism is declining as digital media takes over, and rideshare services and self-driving technology could make taxi driving obsolete. Encouraging kids to develop adaptable skills will be key to their long-term career success.

Despite these changes, few people feel completely confident about their job security in the face of rapid technological advancements.

Teaching kids problem-solving, adaptability, and tech literacy will prepare them for a changing workforce. Instead of fearing job loss, they can learn to embrace innovation and new opportunities.

Reevaluating Their Career Path

There’s no need to be a nagging mum, but you’ll want to take time to help your son reevaluate his career path as he gains more experience. Take a reflective approach – asking open ended questions and checking in periodically to help him identify areas for improvement and growth, ensuring that his long-term career goals align with his current skills, values, and job satisfaction. Sometimes, our kids can be so blinded by their allure of a job that they don’t realize that this is just a steppingstone.

It’s essential to remain open to learning and development. For example, many Americans get help with writing their first resume from their parents, showing the value of seeking guidance and support. By being proactive and adaptable, they can find mentors and opportunities that they didn’t know existed before they started their employment search.

Remember, many schools and municipalities offer workplace readiness programs, too. So if you’re not ready to help your son help with a resume or if he’s not listening to your perspective, there are low cost alternatives out there to support you both.

Should Teens Get Additional Training

It is hard to predict the kinds of jobs that will become obsolete and you never know how soon they will become a thing of the past. But you’re not alone if you’d like your children to have more employment readiness options outside of 4-year college.

If a teen has a strong interest in a particular field, additional training can be incredibly beneficial and these skills may be acquired outside of formal schooling. Additional training can be a crucial step in helping teens achieve their childhood dream job, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Online courses in coding, graphic design, or writing can provide an edge and many are available on Udemy, YouTube, or local community colleges. Apprenticeships, trade programs, internships, and job-shadowing experiences can open doors to exciting opportunities, too, especially in fields that aren’t easily automated and are protected by unions. Even certifications in lifeguarding, CPR, or babysitting can enhance a resume and increase job prospects.

Helping your child navigate their first job search is an exciting milestone. While they may not land their dream job right away, each experience will help them build skills, confidence, and a strong work ethic for the future. Who knows? That first job might be the push they need to land future success.