One of the great perks about having a home business is that we can involve family members if we want to. For our children, this can be incredibly positive (or not so fun too) as they learn work skills and get to be close to us during the day while we are working. As our children get older, however, we may need to put a little more structure around their involvement with the home business and perhaps thinking of them as an “intern” can help shape their experience.
Working in the “family business” can be a very positive experience for kids and parents alike, but we do have to consider what their “job” will actually be and create some boundaries and parameters so that it can actually work. Treating our kids like perpetual gophers or letting them get away with substandard work does not really help them. If we think of them as interns, however, and create a meaningful internship for them to do with the home business, it may be more valuable for everyone concerned.
For a child who is 12, 13 or older, it might help to come up with some definite work hours and a job description. Even if the child is only helping out a couple hours a week, having structure can help both of you to take it more seriously. You can even create a little time sheet or journal so the child can track what she does. Try to allow for some autonomy and if you can give the child a project of his own to work on, that can be incredibly valuable. Think of your own intern experiences (or work you have done as a volunteer or part-time employee)—what were the most valuable and helpful experiences you had? Give your child a chance to really learn some job skills and contribute to the growth of the business and it will be a win-win situation all around.
Also: Building Self-Discipline in Children
When Our Kids Feel Jealous or Hate Our Jobs
“Take Your Child to Work” on our Forums