When school’s out and summer begins, many parents look for ways to keep their children engaged, active, and learning. While camps, travel, and downtime all have their place, one incredibly valuable summer activity is often overlooked: a summer job.
Whether it’s scooping ice cream, babysitting, lifeguarding at the local pool, or helping at a family business, a summer job can teach your child life lessons that go far beyond a paycheck. At Polam Federal Credit Union, we believe that good financial habits start early—and there’s no better time to begin than summer.
Real-World Financial Education
Money looks different when it’s earned. A summer job is often a child’s first experience earning and managing their own income, and it’s an eye-opening one. They begin to understand taxes, savings, and budgeting in a hands-on way.
Polam Tip: Help your child open a youth savings account at Polam. Not only will they get to watch their money grow with interest, but they’ll also learn about setting goals — whether it’s saving for a new gadget, school supplies, or college.
A Strong Work Ethic is Built, Not Born
Working during the summer teaches valuable skills: punctuality, accountability, teamwork, and communication. These experiences build a strong work ethic early on — something that will serve your child in high school, college, and throughout their career.
Even small jobs can make a big difference. Whether they’re dog-walking or assisting at a neighborhood shop, they’re developing discipline and responsibility.
A Confidence Boost
There’s nothing quite like earning your own money. The pride that comes from a job well done helps build confidence and a sense of independence. These are essential life skills, especially during the teen years when identity and self-esteem are still taking shape.
Valuable Time Management
Summer jobs teach kids how to manage their time and juggle responsibilities. Balancing shifts with personal time, family activities, and even summer classes can be a helpful lesson in prioritization. It’s a skill that will serve them well for years to come.
Building a Resume — Early
It’s never too early to start thinking about the future. A summer job adds to a young person’s resume, showing initiative, reliability, and work experience. These qualities stand out on both college and job applications.
Better yet, it might help them explore a potential career interest — whether it’s working with kids, food service, customer support, or technology.
A Sense of Community
Working locally allows kids to become more involved in their neighborhood. Whether they’re helping an elderly neighbor with gardening or serving regulars at a local café, they’re building people skills and community connection — while seeing how their efforts contribute to something bigger.
A Family Opportunity to Teach and Support
A summer job isn’t just a solo adventure — it’s an opportunity for family learning, too. Parents can help guide their child’s financial choices, talk about budgeting, introduce the idea of saving for long-term goals, and even discuss investing.
Polam FCU is here to help families grow stronger together with resources and accounts tailored for every stage of life — including youth savings accounts with competitive rates and personalized service.
Start the Journey Today
If your child is ready to take on a summer job, support them in this exciting next step. Help them apply for opportunities, talk about workplace expectations, and most importantly—celebrate their effort and growth.
And when they get that first paycheck? Bring them by Polam to open a savings account designed just for young earners. Our friendly team is ready to help them start their financial journey with confidence.
Let this summer be more than a break — let it be a breakthrough.