Several types of businesses offer employment opportunities to individuals of this age group. Typically, these include restaurants (particularly fast food establishments), grocery stores, retail shops, and entertainment venues like movie theaters. Summer camps, farms, and landscaping companies also frequently employ younger workers for seasonal positions. Job roles often involve basic tasks such as food preparation, customer service, stocking shelves, or general maintenance.
Early work experience can provide valuable life skills and contribute to personal development. It offers opportunities to learn responsibility, teamwork, time management, and customer interaction. Additionally, earning a wage fosters financial literacy and independence. Historically, youth employment has played a significant role, particularly in agricultural societies. Modern labor laws now regulate youth employment to ensure safe and appropriate working conditions, reflecting a societal shift toward prioritizing education alongside work opportunities.