Roleplay: 

Teens’ jobs 
 
 
 

*At the dinner table* 

YD: So, Mom now that I’m sixteen and I can finally start working I was
wondering if I could get a part time job. Earlier today I saw a job offer at the
grocery store. What do you think, should I apply? 

Mom: What are you talking about?! Absolutely not. You must focus on school!

OD: Oh, mom come on! Don’t be like that. (Turning to YD) You know, she
wasn’t very convinced too when I asked her if I could get a job when I was your
age.

YD: But didn’t you get one anyway? 

OD: Yes, I did, but it took a lot of time for her to accept it. At the time she said
that I wasn’t responsible enough to do it, but I proved her wrong. 

Mom: It’s true. However, I’m not sure if you remember, it was also
overwhelming. At the beginning your grades went down. Does that ring a bell? It
will never blow away from my mind that back then you passed your final exams
by the skin of your teeth, so why should I let this fly? 

YD: Because I could help you financially by taking some burden off your wallet.
I know how hard it is for you to sustain us since you are all by yourself. If I had a
part time job, I would be able to buy my own clothes, to go out with my friends
without begging you for a few pounds and even to start my own piggy bank for
college. 

OD: That’s true! When I had a part time job as a teen, I learn to manage my
own money! And, mom, you know how much colleges love students that have
worked before. If you pick up valuable work experiences, they are excellent for
your résumé.

Mom: All of that is correct honey, I agree with you, but your sister wouldn’t even
last a semester if she had a part time job. She probably wouldn’t have a well-
made schedule and at some point, she would start worrying with all the things
she would need to do, both for school and her job, and she would feel snowed
under. It is my strong belief that, at this young age, you need to be concerned
about school and school alone, nothing else.

YD: Of course it won’t be very easy at first, but I know I can do it. I’m sure I
would prove you that I’m more than capable to cope with all my obligations.
OD: And I know she will be able to. It’s not that you are going to lose control of
her life. She is just going to become more responsible. It would be a challenge
and a path to growth and self-development. She would get some new skills, a
new perspective of things, like valuing the money she spends and that kind of
stuff.

YD: It will be a great opportunity for me to thrive when challenged with multiple
commitments!

Mom: You two can stop now. It’s easier said than done and you are not going to
twist my arm.

OD: Mom, please think this through. I don’t want to play the Devil’s advocate
but how bad can it be?

Mom: Please! In your first year it was awful. You were always behind your
colleagues, and you had miserable grades. Besides, a teen getting a job might
feel like their childhood is ending too soon!

YD: I’m sorry for beating around the bush but I really don’t think it would
jeopardize school. I understand your concerns, but I find that this is a good way
to help me transition from youth to adulthood.

Mom: Darling, you are as stubborn as your father was! I’ll make you a deal then.
I will let you get a job as long as it doesn’t interfere with your school
assignments, and you can make a constructive use of your free time.

YD: I don’t follow…

OD: Oh my sweet little sister, I see where Mom is going with this! Well done
Mom, that will be a good compromise.

YD: I still don’t follow… what are you talking about? What compromise?

Mom- My dear, I would like you to try a summer job. Summer employment won’t
interfere with school, and it will keep you busy during the summer months. If it
goes well, you may be ready to work during the school year. Otherwise, we will
put this idea on ice.

YD: Oh, I get it now! This is what I would call a win win situation!

OD: Yup! Mom always has an ace up her sleeve! Now, don’t lose your marbles
little one, there is still plenty of studying to do until the summer vacations.