So what?

I just saw an assessment that the teen unemployment rate is nearly a quarter of the teen population that wants to work in the first place.

So what?

I understand that a summer job is supposed to teach responsibility, accountability, and beginning budgeting.

However. 

I just can't get too worked up over teenagers unable to find jobs.  I don't see many teens responsible for themselves, much less for household income.  I don't see many teens willing to do the things I remember as being teenage summer jobs (dragging a lawnmower and weed eater around a neighborhood; babysitting; pet sitting; or farm chores like feeding the animals, helping with milking, helping with hay baling, or things like that).  Delivering pizzas is now reserved for those over eighteen that own their own car and have their own--not their parents'--insurance.  The work is heavy, low-paying, not "fun," and their hands are so busy that they can't play with their phones. 

Personally, I see about half a dozen teenagers on a regular basis.  They either live next door, or spend so much time there that they might as well. 

I would not hire any of them based on the behavior I see.  I wouldn't trust them to take care of my dog, much less my child.  I wouldn't trust them to stop and toss a toy out of the way of a lawnmower.  They're flighty, stupid, and completely unwilling to deal with the consequences of their actions. 

When my son hits about twelve, I'm going to provide him with a decent push mower, a gas-powered weed eater, a gallon can for gas, one for the gas/oil mix needed for the weed eater, and a wagon.  Then, I'm going to teach him how to build a client base, and how to figure gross and net income.

When my daughter hits twelve, given her proclivities, I'll start teaching her how to babysit.  And I'll help her find a daycare that could use help when she hits about sixteen. 

I'll probably teach her how to knit about the same time, and help her figure out what she can make and sell.  And I'll teach her the same small business things I teach the imp.

My kids won't ever complain that they can't find work.