Ask Margar-etiquette about Summer’s Unemployed Teens

Dear Margar-etiquette,

It has been really hard for my teens to find work this summer. If they don’t have part-time summer jobs, they will just be hanging out on the couch or looking for something to “get into.” Do you have any suggestions for parents in this situation?

Worried but Hopeful

Dear Hopeful,

You’re not alone—many families are feeling this same frustration. While summer jobs used to be a rite of passage, times have changed. Fewer opportunities, higher competition, and digital distractions can all keep teens glued to the couch instead of clocking in.

But don’t lose hope, summer can still be a productive, meaningful time—even without a paycheck. Here are a few ideas to help your teens make the most of these months and stay off the couch (at least for most of the day):

1. Create structure

A loose schedule is better than no schedule. Set expectations for waking up, daily or weekly chores, screen time, and outside activity. Teens thrive with boundaries, even if they roll their eyes at them.

2. Volunteer locally

Encourage them to give their time at a food pantry (Midwest Food Bank or The Real Life Center are options), animal shelter, summer camp, or library. Volunteering builds empathy, experience, and often connections that lead to job offers later.

3. Take on “home internships”

Have them plan and cook family dinners a few nights a week, organize the garage, or start a home improvement project. You don’t need a paycheck to learn accountability— responsibility starts at home.

4. Encourage entrepreneurial efforts

Dog walking, babysitting, painting mailboxes, lawn care, tutoring, or starting a YouTube channel with a purpose—teens can create their own work with a little guidance and encouragement. What starts as a summer hustle could plant the seed for a lifelong career path.

5. Explore life skills

Teach them to budget, do laundry, write a professional email, or change a tire. These are the everyday skills that build confidence and independence—essentials for any path they take.

Most importantly, talk with your teen about purpose. This isn’t about staying busy just for the sake of it. It’s about growing up, stepping up, and learning what it means to make a contribution—even if it’s unpaid.

Wishing you a summer of growth,

Margar-etiquette

#LITA (Love Is The Answer)