Dad Brags That His 14-Year-Old-Son Works “Every Day He Can” At Burger King, Leading To A Fierce Debate Online
Do you remember your first work experience? That glorious feeling that finally, you’ll be making your own money. And I guess, at that age, not a lot of people were thinking about what kind of job it’s going to be. By starting with waitressing, cleaning tables, washing dishes, working at a shop, carrying and lifting groceries, and other things, we all learned things like showing up on time, making sure that everything is done the way it supposes to be, taking more responsibilities, working as individual and being there for your team. For most of us, these were the first steps to learning about work ethics. No matter how things have changed throughout time, it seems that people still value people who work hard and start to take such responsibilities at a young age.
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Starting to work and earn your own money at a young age is usually very exciting for teenagers
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Recently, a dad shared a Facebook post about his son starting to work at Burger King, a fast-food restaurant, being only 14 years old. He was very proud of his son, who, according to him, not only has a job, but he works every day, including weekends. He stays there from early morning until late at night. Dad says that his son’s dream is to finally save for a car and finishes his post with advice to adults “to take notes” from his son on how to be a respectable person. What at first looked like a nice appreciation post, soon turned to become a source for a massive discussion on child labor.
This Twitter user pointed out that it’s not always a good idea to let your young kids work to the extent where they spend their whole free time at the job
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This proud dad shares the moment when his 14 year-old son starts to work at Burger King to make his own money
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Twitter user @kittynouveau shared this post with a caption that says “god this is depressing” and soon her post became viral with 205.9k likes and 4k comments pointing out how this dad should be concerned rather than proud of how his kid is being exploited. The first thing to caught everyone’s attention was that even though the kid was supposed to work only part-time, but as stated by the parent, they were there every day, all day. What was also concerning is that the son is only 14 years old and as stated by the other social media users, he is still a kid and deserves to enjoy his youth before actually joining the workforce. Even though dad said that his son “loves every minute of it”, those who worked in such places as the service industry know how hard and nerve-racking this job could be.
As dad states that his son works there “every day”, Twitter users are quite negative towards the decision to let the kid be a “slave”
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Knowing that the son is working every day, including weekends, sparks a debate of how “part-time” this job is
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You might ask how 14-year olds can work in this industry? Well, they can. According to the law in the US, the applicants should be at least 16 years old. However, 14-15-year-olds also can be employed with a work permit. They also perform limited tasks. Bored Panda already covered a story on Burger King that was letting parents know that they would hire their 14-15-year-old kids. Once again, this matter was met with controversy, as it became a public secret that employees do not get proper salaries and work conditions.
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Of course, there would be no discussion without some people agreeing on how valuable this experience is to a young mind. But the main concern here is that there are flaws in such work industry and that young teenagers will be used rather than inspired to seek better things from early days. Maybe it is best to let kids be kids for as long as possible?
What are your thoughts on the topic? What was your first work experience? Share in the comments down below!
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Some people commented on the situation by sharing their own experience on starting to work this young
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There were various opinions on whether it is a good think to allow your children to work from an early age. But it seems that to each his own
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Dear proud Dad: This is the time where YOU should provide for your child. If he wants to have a job at 16, fine. Don't call others "lazy", it is obviously not you who works at the weekend.
I've no problems with a youngster wanting to work and learning about the merits of hard work, but I do have a big problem with the dad's bragging and preaching about it. Not only is it judging others not behaving like his son, but it also must make the son feel more obliged to keep doing it, and at his age he shouldn't feel obliged to work.
And the “lazy grown-ass people”, which is an obvious jab at minimum wage workers who are pushing for better pay and working conditions. Gross.
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What a kerfuffle over nothing. "Works every day he can" does not mean "works every day." The father explicitly says the job is part-time. For a 14-year-old, that means at most 20 hours. Less in some states. Even in the summer.
They specifically state he goes in early and stays late almost every day he works
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Personally, I don't see the problem with this. If the kid wants to work and is happy doing it, what's the issue? He'll learn the value of money and to save. It'll help him out in the future. I would encourage the child to take breaks, but kids can be so hyped up to do something they don't want to take breaks.
I live in the UK and started part time work at 15, didn't like working but the money helped by stuff I needed which my parents couldn't afford. I think that if it's 20 hours a week there's nothing wrong with this.
I don't see anything wrong with it, I think I definitely burnt myself out because I essentially had 2 jobs and full time school....I definitely did become jaded at an earlier age learning how terrible some people can be. Nightmare customers don't care if you're 14 they will still treat you like crap...so I chose to work with animals because I would rather get bitten on a bad day than have some entitled ass mentally abuse me...so I learned that at least.
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Burger King was specifically hiring 14 and 15 year olds to keep from having to offer higher wages to adults. There was an article about it on BP just a couple of weeks ago. Nice to know that parents are happy to take BK up on their offer! I wonder if the kid has his own bank account, or if his pay just goes straight to Dad?
As far as i know, you can't have a bank account of your own if you are under 18 or are not an emancipated minor. So, yeah, Daddy-O probably has the money.
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There is something to be said for the early development of a good work ethic, as long as it is voluntary, not hazardous, and the kid has realistic priorities. Grew up in single parent work-class family. Never missed a meal, but when I wanted a bike, or later a car, it was my own earnings that paid for it.
I've been working since I was 12. My first job was at the local fire house on bingo night waitressing for the old people. All the jobs taught me was how to be a people pleaser that felt guilty saying No and burn out comes for you quickly and that you will be exploited and replaced very easily. It was a hard lesson at 18 when I finally realized what was happening
Good for him. I loved working in my part time job when I was a teenager. I made great friends, earned money and learnt valuable life-skills that meant that when I moved to another country at 18, I was well-equipped to handle it. If the teenager loves it, and isn't working longer than the hours the law permits, it shouldn't be a problem
I grew up working. Let me tell you what this normally leads to. Kids who have to work regular jobs end up missing extracurriculars that mean the difference during college application time. They miss out on many other things that generally lead to advantages in life. They're jaded about work, and the public in general, at an early age. Homework and studying isn't as important as getting hours in because hours mean food and a roof. It is one of the things that perpetuates poverty. I won't go so far as to say kids shouldn't mow lawns, babysit, etc, but a regular job too young can cripple a future.
My first job was at age 15 when I worked at a gas station, didn't love the job, but I loved earning the money -- In the 3 years before I went to college, I had saved up almost 2 years of tuition (it was a state school and this was back when you could pay college tuition even with a minimum wage job). I learned a lot about car repair, knowledge that I probably wouldn't have learned elsewhere and is still useful today.
It's his choice, so if he wants to do it... let him do it. On a personal note, I do think it's depressing to spend the best years of your life working. That's what makes childhood even more valuable - it's one of those periods when you're not supposed to worry about "grown-up stuff".
Just my opinion but he seems like he really likes his job. So why is working so much a bad thing?
Maybe he just likes it that his dad is proud of him, kids will always try to get their parents approval. Maybe he's missing out on other important things like his social life or doing well in school just to please his father. Maybe his father doesn't like to spend much money on him.
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I think it's absolutely fine if it is the child's choice and it fits around school and social life. But it shouldn't be said that other kids are lazy! I had friends doing morning paper rounds when I was younger, never appealed to me though, I had important kids tv shows to watch!
I got a weekly allowance as a kid but, at 14 I was still hustling to earn extra cash! I didn't work at McD's or anything but I mowed lawns, did landscaping, roofed homes, anything that I could physically DO and get paid for it I was there!! That's how I was able to buy a sweet mountain bike, video games and a bunch of other "cool" stuff that my father wasn't going to buy FOR me. In retrospect, I wish I would have invested that money rather than spend it, but earning it taught me responsibility, gave me a work ethic and made me part of who I am today. AAAAAAAAND I still managed to have an awesome fun childhood with my friends!!!! It blows my mind how people go from "kid working at BKs" to "forced child labor"! He's not living in India people!!!! What about all the kids across America who are growing up on farms? I knew kids in my hometown who had to get up before dawn to work on the farm and then go to school!!! That is closer to child labor than this example.
Why are you insulting India? Do you have any knowledge about life and working conditions in India or is this just your prejudices speaking?
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God forbid a kid wants to work hard. All the people shaming the father for appreciating his son's efforts are probably living at home with mom and dad because they can't afford to buy a home. I've been working my ass off since I was 14, and it definitely paid off. The kid seems happy. He has a goal in mind. What would you rather have him do? Stay home and be on social media? Play video games? Aspire to be an influencer? It's not like kids play outside anymore. Bunch of jerks.
It's the judgemental tone the father uses that doesn't sit well.
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Arent we all misreading something. The dad says.. everyday he CAN, which is not the same as working every day.
The more I read about America the more I'm glad I don't live there.
A lot of people had mentioned in RT's that the child staying away from home to work for large chunks of the day triggers the alarm bells for potential abuse at home (mostly based on anecdotal experiences)... With the father's attitude, it sounds possible. :( I hope not. Either way, it's extremely sad that yet again, people point their ire towards "free loaders" instead of the multi mi/billionaire companies who skimp out on paying taxes and fair wages. They are the ones destroying the economy and will bring upon the country's downfall. Children should not have to work like this.
I'd bet real money that like some fast food joints, the Burger King is understaffed because adults can do better than horrible working conditions for minimum wage. And that the kid is being pressured to work longer hours than are legal for a kid of that age, and he's going along with it for now because he hasn't learned how to say "no" to adults yet. Well, if I'm right, he will learn soon enough.
Poor thing needs a vacation! That's not a part time job. 14 is just way too early!
My kid got a job at the local pizzeria when she was 14. She worked about 12 hours a week, which I felt was plenty for a child in school with a lot of studying to do. Learning how to work in an adult setting and the responsibility of being on time, completing her tasks, dealing with customers, getting along with a variety of co-workers and how to use initiative. I would never have let her work more than that, because kids are still kids and studies and free time and a social life should come before that.
Have you never left the western world? Go see what kids younger than him are doing, and are capable of. They're supporting their entire families in some countries. This is nothing. If he wants to work, let him. He's working at BK, not mining coal. Give me a freakin' break.
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That child doesn't want to be at home and gets appreciated more at BK. That's why he loves it.
It says "every day he CAN". Can't people read. It didn't say he works 7 days a week. And it says he comes in early and stays late. That doesn't mean open to close. 🤦♀️
Taken at face value, my only objection is the disturbing level of "pride" the father exhibits. At 14, that boy is not working very many hours. Last I worked at BK, I enjoyed the work and most of the coworkers. I often unofficially "mentored" the young ones to help prevent the burnout most of the people here are whining about. It's possible this kid has a similar work environment.
Not something for Dad to brag about, whether it was the kid’s idea or not. He’s still too young to be dropped in a job with older teens, or adults (yikes!). 14 year olds generally don’t have to work outside their homes, because their parents are paying them allowances in exchange for cleaning their rooms, taking out the trash, or whatever chores they’re assigned (teaches them about being paid for their work, about handling adult responsibilities, and how to maintain a home, since they’ll eventually have their own places). Maybe they make extra through babysitting or mowing lawns in the neighborhood. Most have a goal in mind for the money, like being able to afford college, or having a car at 16—and they usually have an agreement with their parents about matching funds for the car. At 16, the money they earn working part time is either still going toward buying the car, or paying for gas and other car-related expenses.
I hope the kid actually GETS the money instead of his dad keeping it. But to be fair it was his choice (i hope) to work there
This is just an example of a father trying to convince Other People that his kid (and by extension, him) are superior human beings and that they always will be. The restaurant lobby has paid lawmakers in many states very generously so that young adolescents can be exploited for pennies and that it's all for the benefit of the kids and they are shocked, SHOCKED that anyone would think otherwise. Not wanting to work every day for a few bucks an hour at the age of 14 is not a character flaw, it's a sign of common sense. I feel sorry for the kid, and can only imagine that his dad's apparent and overwhelming pride over his work fetish is part of what keeps the kid wanting so desperately to NOT be at home with him.
I was brought to the barn ever morning to muck out stalls, feed the horses, groom, etc. since I was about the age of 6. The school bus even picked me up at the racetrack cause we got to the barn at 4am and I would get on the bus around 7:30am. Then when I got home from school it was time to feed again. I absolutely loved it. My parents paid me $20 a week instead of hiring a groom for $400. However, I also think there is a huge difference from me helping my parents in a family business where I was not exposed to horrible customers. I worked fastfood and it is not a job for anyone at any age. You are treated horribly, it is stressful, and the pay is low. I support working children to a point, grew up where everyone was a farmer, so I know I have to be biased on this, but nothing made me happier in the world than going to the racetrack everyday and working with the horses. Also helped my dad with construction when I was 14-17 years old, but once again it was me and my dad building.
My mom and I got into many fights when I was 14 because I did not have a job. I told her they won't hire me until I am 16 unless I am family or something. She did not believe me so I told her to ask the cashier at the grocery store. She said "We don't hire until 16, which is the standard at all the stores here". So she stopped yelling at me for being lazy for a little while.
All the other 14 yo are enjoying summer. He is missing childhood. Nice parenting, "dad"...
I grew up with mom and dad both working, my dad 2 full-time jobs, and all of the money went to keeping a roof over our heads with 5 kids. At 9, I got my first paid job working for someone else delivering TIme Magazine and the Wall Street Journal. Back then there were tons of "kid jobs" like that (mowing lawns, raking leaves, painting a fence for an elderly neighbor). One day in 6th grade the parents sat me down and told me if I wanted to go to college, I needed to start figuring how to pay for it because they couldn't. My college fund was spent that day paying for a hospital bill so they wouldn't take our only car (car was 10 years old). I got my first fast food job at 14 where I was allowed to work 10 hours a week there on top of my paper routes and lawnmowing.When poor, you start working young or literally starve. Its not fair but its the real world. PS - I'm all for fixing it so work is an option, not a requirement but the American Dream has brainwashed a country.
Both the kid and the guy in the back aren't wearing their masks properly. It's no wonder this Burger King has no problem exploiting literal children. This is why I maintain that capitalism ruins everything.
Some people are insane. By that, I mean the majority of the commenters and the tone of the story itself- establishing a work ethic is healthy and necessary for facing the reality of the world. I've worked since I was 9 in one form or another. It's sick to see so much nonsense and people dragging this kid for following a responsible path.
In my country it is only legal to work when you are 15 and you cannot work with money or at night etc. Not sure about how it is in the US. I dont see a big difference between 14 and 15. but of course he is happy to have his own money. still he shouldnt be working everyday and long hours - nobody should.
This article twisted what the dad said & it seems everyone misunderstood it. He works every day he CAN & if he CAN, he'll work on a weekend. He did not say that he works every single day, including weekends. It's part time. Kid is probably working 2 or 3 days & getting an extra day here & there & ppl are freaking out.
I see nothing wrong with this. People in their 20's (and my god some 30's too) have no clue how to save money, work a job or even make dinner. Not saying all of them, but there are far too many old "children" that went to college and came back home and never left. More young adults/teens should be proud to work and learn the real value of earning things and managing their finances. It is sad what has happened, I met a 28 year old who did not know how to cut an apple! AN APPLE!
As long as the boy is happy and saving up the money for the car he wants, I don't see an issue with him. Dad? Could have stopped at being proud and not gone into "lazy. Like many have said, at his age he maybe getting minimal hours (as many as he can) even working extra. It may be a place that is okay to work at, just because it's fast food doesn't automatically make management A-holes. If the kids wants to work and not one is forcing him, I don't see a problem. He may be the kind of person that is bored at home, doesn't enjoy some of the summer stuff his peers might be doing.
It's hard for anyone to make judgements on this because we don't have all the facts. It appears like he's working everyday, and many doubt he would enjoy that. Some call it child labour, he's being exploited etc. But we don't really know for sure. Maybe he's a hard working kid and really wants to be at his job. Maybe he doesn't work everyday. There's not enough info or proof of anything here. All ifs and maybes.
Of course children should not be work slaves! They should be play slaves, forced to do nothing useful all day, regardless of how they feel about it.
I give this kid credit for his industriousness. He's out there working not sitting home playing video games. He's learning important life lessons.
I worked at 14. My mother took my pay check until i left for the military. I was groomed by 21yp men who were very disappointed i wouldn't sleep with them and subjected to all types of harassment. My daughter didn't start working until 16, but she too has been nonstop harassed. 14 is too young.
IMHO, I see the problem is every 3rd parties consider themselves to be correct. Personally, I'm interested on the "why" instead of the "what." I helped in my parent's store since 10 or 12. To some extent, why I did in those times could be technically child labor, just that we're not in the US. So, I can't put a judging stance here. I'm more interested on why he choose to work. Is it on his own choice? How does the working environment at his job? How does he manage his time? I'm not gonna judge the dad before looking at the full picture.
The poor kid. His dad is an entitled, selfish, overbearing and intolerant SOB. My parents allowed me to work at age 14. But I could only work 2 nights a week during school months (and my grades had to stay up), and 4 shifts a week in the summer. I had a great boss, and my big brother worked at the same joint. He would have offered protection if I had ever needed it. My folks and I had a deal. They would let me do fun or educational programs in the summer as long as I could pay for half of it. It did not hurt me a bit, and I learned how to save for a goal. In short, I had a great childhood with great parents and great brothers.
Did anyone even stop to consider "go in early and stays late" might mean "for the shift"? Like, arrives 10 min early, stays 10 min past shift... (otherwise, yeah, they are really strict on minor's working hours)
Make him so crushed by work so that he doesn't have the time and freedom to think for himself, educate himself, reflect. This father is depriving his own son of every opportunity to grow as a fully, intellectually, sensible human being and all that for buying a car. Shameful.
I don’t think the dad said he worked every day, just “every day he can” which isn’t so bad. It’s not a bad thing to have a good work ethic and earn some money at the same time. I just hope that he’s getting a decent hourly rate and isn’t being exploited by the employer and isn’t doing anything dangerous like deep frying.
We were sort of expected to be working at that age. We had under the table hustles well before that. I've worked really hard, so my kids won't have to do that, trying to pass on a better life. I do have this weird feeling about it though, because I do think it built character and work ethic in me, so in the long run I got a lot more value from it than those tiny wages. My kids will have a different childhood, I just don't know if that different childhood is better in the long run. Parenting is hard.
People presume too much on the internet. There are myriad reasons this kid enjoys working for long periods of time, and not all of them are bad.
I started working at 14. I'm 36 now and I hate working. I still have another 15 years until I can officially retire, and I'll still end up going back to work until I'm eligible for SS (IF it's still around), so getting a job at 14 does nothing. Good luck kids.
Imagine being forced into this life without your consent and then forces to flip burgers because your dad's a sociopathic child abuser.
what the f**k? that child's father isn't sociopathic or abusive... you have no clue what either term means... if you ever have children, I bet they will end up very spoiled and selfish and lazy
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Well to be fair the whole subject is subjective. My mom started working very young. She moved out young. Owned her own home young. Out of 3 other brothers and sisters aged 62 to 45, she's the only one whole has paid for her own things and her own homes over her lifetime and never asked for money from her mother. My other aunts and uncles live in houses My grandmother paid for. No one else owns their assets.
*raises hand* Don't shoot? *lowers hand* Works like this: varies state to state, and in general, if you are 16 or under, you need written parental consent to hold a job (on the books), and there are laws that forbid the child from working more than X hours per week, so as to allow for their sleep, sanity and schooling. So my question is... is the kid being paid, and is it on th ebooks for his "early-late time"?
Sure it’s young, but he wanted to work he wasn’t forced to. I had a job at 15 and loved it. I worked as much as they’d let me and when I turned 16 they gave me up to 35 hours a week. It was nice having some extra money for myself.
I worked in a hotel at the age of 13 . Didn’t do me any harm . Although one job I had in another hotel when I was younger was 12 afternoon start on a Sunday and finished at 10pm . HATED IT all for a measly £10
Meh, I started working when I was 12, bulb field work. Switched to supermarket at 14. Worked summers at a beach food place. I loved working. If the kid really likes it - let him. And if he comes home sad, let him quit the job, support him and don't bully him into biting the proverbial bullet. It's good experience.
People who get a part time job at an early age are going to be much better prepared to enter the workforce as adults. Plus, they learn punctuality, social skills, and how to manage their money. I was working in a full service gas station at 12. It made me a better person. and I learned useful skills.
Their money? Because bank account is not allowed to minors, how can we be sure they can enjoy their money as you seem to do? For me it's the big concern : who really spent the money?
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Wow. What a kerfuffle (possibly the first time I've ever typed that word). I was encouraged to get a paper round at twelve and proper work every single school holiday not long thereafter. Frankly, it taught me a lot, helped me pay for Uni, gave me a good work ethic, and whiled away the dull summer holidays. Didn't always love it (heavens I did some lousy jobs) but it didn't do me any harm. So if this kid is enjoying it, I think that's awesome. Too many brats get to uni and suddenly go into shock at the prospect of earning a living thereafter.
I started waiting tables part-time at 14, and I'd say the positives outweighed the negatives. I was a shy kid, and having to deal with the public helped me gain some social confidence. Up to that time, I never had any money of my own, because my parents didn't believe in allowances. Having a little cash to spend as I pleased gave me some freedom and taught me some lessons about having and managing my own money. Waiting tables taught me that I didn't want to do that for the rest of my life, so I needed to get an education. On the negative side, I thought working would help me save money for college. I didn't realize that the money I earned would just count against my financial aid eligibility, and that my time would have been better spent doing more extracurricular activities that could earn me a scholarship. If I had a teenage child who wanted to work, I'd still encourage it, but I'd prefer that they work fewer hours than I did and not give up other important activities to do it.
The comments that are negative about this poor kids good work ethic are what is wrong with the world. My daugther is 14 and begs me to get a job. I am proud of her but no one will hire her at 14 or she would have a job.
I don't see what the issue is. He wants to work and is his own money. It gives him independence. Its burger king not the days of the industrial revolution when kids were working in factories and coal mining
He's dreaming about a car at the age of 14, he's not even going to save it. He's straight up about to buy himself a new Porsche.
Please tell me where you can get a Porsche with a 14-year-old's wages from a part-time summer job. I spent my summer job money on a very old Ford Thunderbird.
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Stop be hating. If the kid likes it then let him do it. Why such hate? Can't the internet ever be encouraging? Is the law being broken? Maybe the kid just wants to make money to buy the things he likes. Plus you can't judge other parents for their decisions. Hopefully this doesn't discourage the kid from working.
A lot of us probably are complaining out of the fact we *were exploited underage workers* ----- and what it taught us was fear of parents, bosses, and random strangers, as well as exhausting us and leaving us very little time to improve our chances at getting into university. I managed, but it was he**.
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And if anyone wonders about jaded people who like to think their generation was better, read this comment. 🙄
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Dear proud Dad: This is the time where YOU should provide for your child. If he wants to have a job at 16, fine. Don't call others "lazy", it is obviously not you who works at the weekend.
I've no problems with a youngster wanting to work and learning about the merits of hard work, but I do have a big problem with the dad's bragging and preaching about it. Not only is it judging others not behaving like his son, but it also must make the son feel more obliged to keep doing it, and at his age he shouldn't feel obliged to work.
And the “lazy grown-ass people”, which is an obvious jab at minimum wage workers who are pushing for better pay and working conditions. Gross.
Load More Replies... What a kerfuffle over nothing. "Works every day he can" does not mean "works every day." The father explicitly says the job is part-time. For a 14-year-old, that means at most 20 hours. Less in some states. Even in the summer.
They specifically state he goes in early and stays late almost every day he works
Load More Replies... Personally, I don't see the problem with this. If the kid wants to work and is happy doing it, what's the issue? He'll learn the value of money and to save. It'll help him out in the future. I would encourage the child to take breaks, but kids can be so hyped up to do something they don't want to take breaks.
I live in the UK and started part time work at 15, didn't like working but the money helped by stuff I needed which my parents couldn't afford. I think that if it's 20 hours a week there's nothing wrong with this.
I don't see anything wrong with it, I think I definitely burnt myself out because I essentially had 2 jobs and full time school....I definitely did become jaded at an earlier age learning how terrible some people can be. Nightmare customers don't care if you're 14 they will still treat you like crap...so I chose to work with animals because I would rather get bitten on a bad day than have some entitled ass mentally abuse me...so I learned that at least.
Load More Replies... Burger King was specifically hiring 14 and 15 year olds to keep from having to offer higher wages to adults. There was an article about it on BP just a couple of weeks ago. Nice to know that parents are happy to take BK up on their offer! I wonder if the kid has his own bank account, or if his pay just goes straight to Dad?
As far as i know, you can't have a bank account of your own if you are under 18 or are not an emancipated minor. So, yeah, Daddy-O probably has the money.
Load More Replies... There is something to be said for the early development of a good work ethic, as long as it is voluntary, not hazardous, and the kid has realistic priorities. Grew up in single parent work-class family. Never missed a meal, but when I wanted a bike, or later a car, it was my own earnings that paid for it.
I've been working since I was 12. My first job was at the local fire house on bingo night waitressing for the old people. All the jobs taught me was how to be a people pleaser that felt guilty saying No and burn out comes for you quickly and that you will be exploited and replaced very easily. It was a hard lesson at 18 when I finally realized what was happening
Good for him. I loved working in my part time job when I was a teenager. I made great friends, earned money and learnt valuable life-skills that meant that when I moved to another country at 18, I was well-equipped to handle it. If the teenager loves it, and isn't working longer than the hours the law permits, it shouldn't be a problem
I grew up working. Let me tell you what this normally leads to. Kids who have to work regular jobs end up missing extracurriculars that mean the difference during college application time. They miss out on many other things that generally lead to advantages in life. They're jaded about work, and the public in general, at an early age. Homework and studying isn't as important as getting hours in because hours mean food and a roof. It is one of the things that perpetuates poverty. I won't go so far as to say kids shouldn't mow lawns, babysit, etc, but a regular job too young can cripple a future.
My first job was at age 15 when I worked at a gas station, didn't love the job, but I loved earning the money -- In the 3 years before I went to college, I had saved up almost 2 years of tuition (it was a state school and this was back when you could pay college tuition even with a minimum wage job). I learned a lot about car repair, knowledge that I probably wouldn't have learned elsewhere and is still useful today.
It's his choice, so if he wants to do it... let him do it. On a personal note, I do think it's depressing to spend the best years of your life working. That's what makes childhood even more valuable - it's one of those periods when you're not supposed to worry about "grown-up stuff".
Just my opinion but he seems like he really likes his job. So why is working so much a bad thing?
Maybe he just likes it that his dad is proud of him, kids will always try to get their parents approval. Maybe he's missing out on other important things like his social life or doing well in school just to please his father. Maybe his father doesn't like to spend much money on him.
Load More Replies... I think it's absolutely fine if it is the child's choice and it fits around school and social life. But it shouldn't be said that other kids are lazy! I had friends doing morning paper rounds when I was younger, never appealed to me though, I had important kids tv shows to watch!
I got a weekly allowance as a kid but, at 14 I was still hustling to earn extra cash! I didn't work at McD's or anything but I mowed lawns, did landscaping, roofed homes, anything that I could physically DO and get paid for it I was there!! That's how I was able to buy a sweet mountain bike, video games and a bunch of other "cool" stuff that my father wasn't going to buy FOR me. In retrospect, I wish I would have invested that money rather than spend it, but earning it taught me responsibility, gave me a work ethic and made me part of who I am today. AAAAAAAAND I still managed to have an awesome fun childhood with my friends!!!! It blows my mind how people go from "kid working at BKs" to "forced child labor"! He's not living in India people!!!! What about all the kids across America who are growing up on farms? I knew kids in my hometown who had to get up before dawn to work on the farm and then go to school!!! That is closer to child labor than this example.
Why are you insulting India? Do you have any knowledge about life and working conditions in India or is this just your prejudices speaking?
Load More Replies... God forbid a kid wants to work hard. All the people shaming the father for appreciating his son's efforts are probably living at home with mom and dad because they can't afford to buy a home. I've been working my ass off since I was 14, and it definitely paid off. The kid seems happy. He has a goal in mind. What would you rather have him do? Stay home and be on social media? Play video games? Aspire to be an influencer? It's not like kids play outside anymore. Bunch of jerks.
It's the judgemental tone the father uses that doesn't sit well.
Load More Replies... Arent we all misreading something. The dad says.. everyday he CAN, which is not the same as working every day.
The more I read about America the more I'm glad I don't live there.
A lot of people had mentioned in RT's that the child staying away from home to work for large chunks of the day triggers the alarm bells for potential abuse at home (mostly based on anecdotal experiences)... With the father's attitude, it sounds possible. :( I hope not. Either way, it's extremely sad that yet again, people point their ire towards "free loaders" instead of the multi mi/billionaire companies who skimp out on paying taxes and fair wages. They are the ones destroying the economy and will bring upon the country's downfall. Children should not have to work like this.
I'd bet real money that like some fast food joints, the Burger King is understaffed because adults can do better than horrible working conditions for minimum wage. And that the kid is being pressured to work longer hours than are legal for a kid of that age, and he's going along with it for now because he hasn't learned how to say "no" to adults yet. Well, if I'm right, he will learn soon enough.
Poor thing needs a vacation! That's not a part time job. 14 is just way too early!
My kid got a job at the local pizzeria when she was 14. She worked about 12 hours a week, which I felt was plenty for a child in school with a lot of studying to do. Learning how to work in an adult setting and the responsibility of being on time, completing her tasks, dealing with customers, getting along with a variety of co-workers and how to use initiative. I would never have let her work more than that, because kids are still kids and studies and free time and a social life should come before that.
Have you never left the western world? Go see what kids younger than him are doing, and are capable of. They're supporting their entire families in some countries. This is nothing. If he wants to work, let him. He's working at BK, not mining coal. Give me a freakin' break.
Load More Replies... That child doesn't want to be at home and gets appreciated more at BK. That's why he loves it.
It says "every day he CAN". Can't people read. It didn't say he works 7 days a week. And it says he comes in early and stays late. That doesn't mean open to close. 🤦♀️
Taken at face value, my only objection is the disturbing level of "pride" the father exhibits. At 14, that boy is not working very many hours. Last I worked at BK, I enjoyed the work and most of the coworkers. I often unofficially "mentored" the young ones to help prevent the burnout most of the people here are whining about. It's possible this kid has a similar work environment.
Not something for Dad to brag about, whether it was the kid’s idea or not. He’s still too young to be dropped in a job with older teens, or adults (yikes!). 14 year olds generally don’t have to work outside their homes, because their parents are paying them allowances in exchange for cleaning their rooms, taking out the trash, or whatever chores they’re assigned (teaches them about being paid for their work, about handling adult responsibilities, and how to maintain a home, since they’ll eventually have their own places). Maybe they make extra through babysitting or mowing lawns in the neighborhood. Most have a goal in mind for the money, like being able to afford college, or having a car at 16—and they usually have an agreement with their parents about matching funds for the car. At 16, the money they earn working part time is either still going toward buying the car, or paying for gas and other car-related expenses.
I hope the kid actually GETS the money instead of his dad keeping it. But to be fair it was his choice (i hope) to work there
This is just an example of a father trying to convince Other People that his kid (and by extension, him) are superior human beings and that they always will be. The restaurant lobby has paid lawmakers in many states very generously so that young adolescents can be exploited for pennies and that it's all for the benefit of the kids and they are shocked, SHOCKED that anyone would think otherwise. Not wanting to work every day for a few bucks an hour at the age of 14 is not a character flaw, it's a sign of common sense. I feel sorry for the kid, and can only imagine that his dad's apparent and overwhelming pride over his work fetish is part of what keeps the kid wanting so desperately to NOT be at home with him.
I was brought to the barn ever morning to muck out stalls, feed the horses, groom, etc. since I was about the age of 6. The school bus even picked me up at the racetrack cause we got to the barn at 4am and I would get on the bus around 7:30am. Then when I got home from school it was time to feed again. I absolutely loved it. My parents paid me $20 a week instead of hiring a groom for $400. However, I also think there is a huge difference from me helping my parents in a family business where I was not exposed to horrible customers. I worked fastfood and it is not a job for anyone at any age. You are treated horribly, it is stressful, and the pay is low. I support working children to a point, grew up where everyone was a farmer, so I know I have to be biased on this, but nothing made me happier in the world than going to the racetrack everyday and working with the horses. Also helped my dad with construction when I was 14-17 years old, but once again it was me and my dad building.
My mom and I got into many fights when I was 14 because I did not have a job. I told her they won't hire me until I am 16 unless I am family or something. She did not believe me so I told her to ask the cashier at the grocery store. She said "We don't hire until 16, which is the standard at all the stores here". So she stopped yelling at me for being lazy for a little while.
All the other 14 yo are enjoying summer. He is missing childhood. Nice parenting, "dad"...
I grew up with mom and dad both working, my dad 2 full-time jobs, and all of the money went to keeping a roof over our heads with 5 kids. At 9, I got my first paid job working for someone else delivering TIme Magazine and the Wall Street Journal. Back then there were tons of "kid jobs" like that (mowing lawns, raking leaves, painting a fence for an elderly neighbor). One day in 6th grade the parents sat me down and told me if I wanted to go to college, I needed to start figuring how to pay for it because they couldn't. My college fund was spent that day paying for a hospital bill so they wouldn't take our only car (car was 10 years old). I got my first fast food job at 14 where I was allowed to work 10 hours a week there on top of my paper routes and lawnmowing.When poor, you start working young or literally starve. Its not fair but its the real world. PS - I'm all for fixing it so work is an option, not a requirement but the American Dream has brainwashed a country.
Both the kid and the guy in the back aren't wearing their masks properly. It's no wonder this Burger King has no problem exploiting literal children. This is why I maintain that capitalism ruins everything.
Some people are insane. By that, I mean the majority of the commenters and the tone of the story itself- establishing a work ethic is healthy and necessary for facing the reality of the world. I've worked since I was 9 in one form or another. It's sick to see so much nonsense and people dragging this kid for following a responsible path.
In my country it is only legal to work when you are 15 and you cannot work with money or at night etc. Not sure about how it is in the US. I dont see a big difference between 14 and 15. but of course he is happy to have his own money. still he shouldnt be working everyday and long hours - nobody should.
This article twisted what the dad said & it seems everyone misunderstood it. He works every day he CAN & if he CAN, he'll work on a weekend. He did not say that he works every single day, including weekends. It's part time. Kid is probably working 2 or 3 days & getting an extra day here & there & ppl are freaking out.
I see nothing wrong with this. People in their 20's (and my god some 30's too) have no clue how to save money, work a job or even make dinner. Not saying all of them, but there are far too many old "children" that went to college and came back home and never left. More young adults/teens should be proud to work and learn the real value of earning things and managing their finances. It is sad what has happened, I met a 28 year old who did not know how to cut an apple! AN APPLE!
As long as the boy is happy and saving up the money for the car he wants, I don't see an issue with him. Dad? Could have stopped at being proud and not gone into "lazy. Like many have said, at his age he maybe getting minimal hours (as many as he can) even working extra. It may be a place that is okay to work at, just because it's fast food doesn't automatically make management A-holes. If the kids wants to work and not one is forcing him, I don't see a problem. He may be the kind of person that is bored at home, doesn't enjoy some of the summer stuff his peers might be doing.
It's hard for anyone to make judgements on this because we don't have all the facts. It appears like he's working everyday, and many doubt he would enjoy that. Some call it child labour, he's being exploited etc. But we don't really know for sure. Maybe he's a hard working kid and really wants to be at his job. Maybe he doesn't work everyday. There's not enough info or proof of anything here. All ifs and maybes.
Of course children should not be work slaves! They should be play slaves, forced to do nothing useful all day, regardless of how they feel about it.
I give this kid credit for his industriousness. He's out there working not sitting home playing video games. He's learning important life lessons.
I worked at 14. My mother took my pay check until i left for the military. I was groomed by 21yp men who were very disappointed i wouldn't sleep with them and subjected to all types of harassment. My daughter didn't start working until 16, but she too has been nonstop harassed. 14 is too young.
IMHO, I see the problem is every 3rd parties consider themselves to be correct. Personally, I'm interested on the "why" instead of the "what." I helped in my parent's store since 10 or 12. To some extent, why I did in those times could be technically child labor, just that we're not in the US. So, I can't put a judging stance here. I'm more interested on why he choose to work. Is it on his own choice? How does the working environment at his job? How does he manage his time? I'm not gonna judge the dad before looking at the full picture.
The poor kid. His dad is an entitled, selfish, overbearing and intolerant SOB. My parents allowed me to work at age 14. But I could only work 2 nights a week during school months (and my grades had to stay up), and 4 shifts a week in the summer. I had a great boss, and my big brother worked at the same joint. He would have offered protection if I had ever needed it. My folks and I had a deal. They would let me do fun or educational programs in the summer as long as I could pay for half of it. It did not hurt me a bit, and I learned how to save for a goal. In short, I had a great childhood with great parents and great brothers.
Did anyone even stop to consider "go in early and stays late" might mean "for the shift"? Like, arrives 10 min early, stays 10 min past shift... (otherwise, yeah, they are really strict on minor's working hours)
Make him so crushed by work so that he doesn't have the time and freedom to think for himself, educate himself, reflect. This father is depriving his own son of every opportunity to grow as a fully, intellectually, sensible human being and all that for buying a car. Shameful.
I don’t think the dad said he worked every day, just “every day he can” which isn’t so bad. It’s not a bad thing to have a good work ethic and earn some money at the same time. I just hope that he’s getting a decent hourly rate and isn’t being exploited by the employer and isn’t doing anything dangerous like deep frying.
We were sort of expected to be working at that age. We had under the table hustles well before that. I've worked really hard, so my kids won't have to do that, trying to pass on a better life. I do have this weird feeling about it though, because I do think it built character and work ethic in me, so in the long run I got a lot more value from it than those tiny wages. My kids will have a different childhood, I just don't know if that different childhood is better in the long run. Parenting is hard.
People presume too much on the internet. There are myriad reasons this kid enjoys working for long periods of time, and not all of them are bad.
I started working at 14. I'm 36 now and I hate working. I still have another 15 years until I can officially retire, and I'll still end up going back to work until I'm eligible for SS (IF it's still around), so getting a job at 14 does nothing. Good luck kids.
Imagine being forced into this life without your consent and then forces to flip burgers because your dad's a sociopathic child abuser.
what the f**k? that child's father isn't sociopathic or abusive... you have no clue what either term means... if you ever have children, I bet they will end up very spoiled and selfish and lazy
Load More Replies... Well to be fair the whole subject is subjective. My mom started working very young. She moved out young. Owned her own home young. Out of 3 other brothers and sisters aged 62 to 45, she's the only one whole has paid for her own things and her own homes over her lifetime and never asked for money from her mother. My other aunts and uncles live in houses My grandmother paid for. No one else owns their assets.
*raises hand* Don't shoot? *lowers hand* Works like this: varies state to state, and in general, if you are 16 or under, you need written parental consent to hold a job (on the books), and there are laws that forbid the child from working more than X hours per week, so as to allow for their sleep, sanity and schooling. So my question is... is the kid being paid, and is it on th ebooks for his "early-late time"?
Sure it’s young, but he wanted to work he wasn’t forced to. I had a job at 15 and loved it. I worked as much as they’d let me and when I turned 16 they gave me up to 35 hours a week. It was nice having some extra money for myself.
I worked in a hotel at the age of 13 . Didn’t do me any harm . Although one job I had in another hotel when I was younger was 12 afternoon start on a Sunday and finished at 10pm . HATED IT all for a measly £10
Meh, I started working when I was 12, bulb field work. Switched to supermarket at 14. Worked summers at a beach food place. I loved working. If the kid really likes it - let him. And if he comes home sad, let him quit the job, support him and don't bully him into biting the proverbial bullet. It's good experience.
People who get a part time job at an early age are going to be much better prepared to enter the workforce as adults. Plus, they learn punctuality, social skills, and how to manage their money. I was working in a full service gas station at 12. It made me a better person. and I learned useful skills.
Their money? Because bank account is not allowed to minors, how can we be sure they can enjoy their money as you seem to do? For me it's the big concern : who really spent the money?
Load More Replies... Wow. What a kerfuffle (possibly the first time I've ever typed that word). I was encouraged to get a paper round at twelve and proper work every single school holiday not long thereafter. Frankly, it taught me a lot, helped me pay for Uni, gave me a good work ethic, and whiled away the dull summer holidays. Didn't always love it (heavens I did some lousy jobs) but it didn't do me any harm. So if this kid is enjoying it, I think that's awesome. Too many brats get to uni and suddenly go into shock at the prospect of earning a living thereafter.
I started waiting tables part-time at 14, and I'd say the positives outweighed the negatives. I was a shy kid, and having to deal with the public helped me gain some social confidence. Up to that time, I never had any money of my own, because my parents didn't believe in allowances. Having a little cash to spend as I pleased gave me some freedom and taught me some lessons about having and managing my own money. Waiting tables taught me that I didn't want to do that for the rest of my life, so I needed to get an education. On the negative side, I thought working would help me save money for college. I didn't realize that the money I earned would just count against my financial aid eligibility, and that my time would have been better spent doing more extracurricular activities that could earn me a scholarship. If I had a teenage child who wanted to work, I'd still encourage it, but I'd prefer that they work fewer hours than I did and not give up other important activities to do it.
The comments that are negative about this poor kids good work ethic are what is wrong with the world. My daugther is 14 and begs me to get a job. I am proud of her but no one will hire her at 14 or she would have a job.
I don't see what the issue is. He wants to work and is his own money. It gives him independence. Its burger king not the days of the industrial revolution when kids were working in factories and coal mining
He's dreaming about a car at the age of 14, he's not even going to save it. He's straight up about to buy himself a new Porsche.
Please tell me where you can get a Porsche with a 14-year-old's wages from a part-time summer job. I spent my summer job money on a very old Ford Thunderbird.
Load More Replies... Stop be hating. If the kid likes it then let him do it. Why such hate? Can't the internet ever be encouraging? Is the law being broken? Maybe the kid just wants to make money to buy the things he likes. Plus you can't judge other parents for their decisions. Hopefully this doesn't discourage the kid from working.
A lot of us probably are complaining out of the fact we *were exploited underage workers* ----- and what it taught us was fear of parents, bosses, and random strangers, as well as exhausting us and leaving us very little time to improve our chances at getting into university. I managed, but it was he**.
Load More Replies... And if anyone wonders about jaded people who like to think their generation was better, read this comment. 🙄
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