Mine was painting fences in my neighborhood. I combined my love of the outdoors with earning money! One homeowner paid me in silver dollars that he had won in Las Vegas.
Whether painting fences, working in the family business, or working in a local shop, restaurant, or office, summer jobs provide valuable opportunities for young people so they can earn money, gain independence, build self-esteem, and explore vocational interests. They can also acquire valuable social and emotional learning skills, such as teamwork and critical thinking, which help them transition to adulthood. Many young people are seizing these opportunities: a recent GAO report estimates that in 2017, 2.5 million adolescents 15–17 years old worked during the summer months (June through August). [1]