Description:
Any teen who can work, has the ability to save and purchase their own investments. My son started delivering the town newspaper when he was 10 years old. It didn't pay much, but he saved for 3 1/2 years. There were times he wanted to spend the money, so we compromised that he could spend his tips, while saving his monthly check. After 3 1/2 years, my son bought almost $1,000 worth of stock in a top international medical company - at the age of 13! Now mind you, my son doesn't come from a rich family. He is the son of a single mother who makes $24,000 a year and pays her own way to school. My son also hasn't had contact with his father for many years, but he doesn't use that as an excuse for not living his life to the fullest. My son and I worked together to make his stock purchase happen. I also expect him to take care of himself and to have self pride. I have also helped him deliver papers when he has needed it, but mostly he has spent every Wednesday taking care of his doorstep delivery himself. He is already talking about how he will help other teens to take control of their futures. Next month my son will retire after 4 1/2 years of delivering the paper - and after missing only two Wednesdays during that time, once to visit his grandpa in Louisianna and once because he had knee surgery the day before. What is he looking forward to next? He wants to work during the summer at the local apple orchard.

Other comments or suggestions:
Encourage your teens to reach goals, have patience teaching them how to do it, and then celebrate every single accomplishment!