Some people think that it is beneficial for children to do paid work, while others think that it can be harmful for children. What are the advantages and disadvantages of children doing paid work?

Although

a paid

job

is thought by some to be a useful experience for children, other people consider that it can be detrimental. Children can learn about earning

money

and gain independence from doing paid

work

, but there are

also

drawbacks to be taken into account.

Firstly

, one benefit of children doing paid

work

is that they understand the value of

money

.

This

also

teaches them not to waste

money

as they realise the

work

needed to earn it.

Secondly

, having a paid

job

is advantageous because children take their

first

steps in learning how to manage and save

money

. Many older children,

for instance

, have a part-time

job

in order to save up for something they would

otherwise

be unable to afford.

Thirdly

, working teaches children responsibility and independence. These skills help children to develop into self-supporting adults ready to enter society and the workforce.

On the other hand

, one problem when children have a

job

is that it potentially exposes them to exploitation through slave labour.

For example

, in some developing countries children are made to endeavour full time but due to their age are not protected by law.

As a result

, they are paid negligible wages for

work

that can be tough, manual

work

. Another possible issue is that the time children spend working prevents them from focusing on their school

work

. Having a good education is the key to a successful future so being employed as a child can result in a poor academic performance which can be harmful in the long run. In conclusion, while children can benefit from some industry experience, it can

also

lead to exploitation or lower grades at school.