I'm 13. Two years ago, I began working at Avon, using my mother's name with her permission of course. I know, teenagers should enjoy life instead of just giving time to a job that might even not be worth it. But, with Avon (as hard is at can be sometimes) I work on flexible times. It's not necessary to work everyday from 8 to 5. I can work any day I want, at any time I want.

Children should not work, at least not until they have enough age to work. I think they should start working at their 12-13 years. It's considerable for me; after all, I started at my 11's.

I know parents are protective with young teens and don't like them to work a lot, that's why they give 'em allowance. But, there are multiple reasons why I prefer working early than receiving an allowance:

- I don't give my parents pressure on giving me money. All I ask is trust and permission. As easy as it sounds. I just do a good job, keep earning their trust and earn my own money, my money that I sweat ed for all by myself.

- It helps me learn how to deal with money. Why do you think parents get so frustrated when they give us an allowance and we spend it on stupid stuff like candy or violent video games they don't like? Because they work their butt of to earn that money and spend it on something non-productive. When I have to use the money I earned, I Begin to use it more carefully, on important stuff I need. Parents like that; it's called responsibility.

- It helps me to build a responsible character. When I grow up and have a professional job, no matter what it was, I can make a better job. Why? Because I built a responsible character since I was little, because I already know how to handle some situations and because I'm used to pressure.

See? It's not bad working when your young. But have a good job that gives you time for you and your friends. Me? I work on Avon and write articles here to earn some money to help my parents with school supplies, backpack, books and more (we're not rich ya know!). I didn't say this, but another reason I like to work, is because I can pay my own needs without making my parents worry. They already have adult problems. I can take care of mine.

Learn more about this author, Yamary Echevarria.
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