It used to be that fast food jobs, babysitting, mowing lawns, etc., were things that kids did. Either younger kids living at home or college students.

My ex used to deliver papers when he was a kid to make money to buy stuff like a new bike. His parents provided everything he needed, but they didn't have the money to buy him a lot of stuff, so he learned to work to earn it himself.

I don't think kids nowadays learn these lessons. I have friends whose kids are in college who still do not know how to drive, who live on student loans and help from their parents.

Once upon a time kids started to work in high school so by the time they left home, they already had a proven track record.

And back then people also had to economize. When I graduated from college 30 years ago I had to have roommates because I was in debt due to a new car and student loans. I needed roommates for several years.

My parents came to the United States and the first place they lived was a one bedroom apartment. It took them several years to upgrade to one with three bedrooms so each of their children could have a bedroom.

I have many white American friends who grew up middle class but who had to work in high school.

Now, I know very few parents who have their children work. They give them allowances even if the kids don't do anything to help out around the house. The parents complain that they do everything and are not appreciated...