Employment for Teens
Finding a job is hard work
Working can provide you with independence, confidence, new friends, and money. As a teen with special needs, you will want to find the right job for you and your abilities. It is important to feel safe and supported in your job. The process of getting your first job or volunteer work with little or no experience will take some planning, learning, and patience.
The Basics of Finding a Job: 
- Decide what types of jobs interest you: What types of skills and experience do you have? What are your interests? What new skills would you like to learn?
- Narrow down the specifics for your job hunt: How far are you willing to travel? How will you get to and from your job? What hours are you available to work?
- Search outside the box: Look into volunteer opportunities, internships, or start your own small business. Let friends, family members, teachers, and neighbors know you are looking for a job and ask for their help. Use the internet to search out available resources in your area.
- When filling out applications: Prepare a simple resume even if you think you don’t have experience. List your skills and responsibilities, even if it’s only chores you do at home such as mowing the lawn or babysitting. Highlight how your skills will meet the needs of your prospective employers. Have references available.
- If you get called for a job interview: Practice how you might respond to interview questions with friends and family. Find out as much as you can about your prospective employer. Look professional for the interview.
- And most importantly, good luck! Keep at it and don’t get discouraged.
General Job Resources:
- YouthHood Job Center: University of Minnesota's site for teens beginning to think about working. Contains information, surveys, and helpful questions to think about.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics Career Information: Explore your skills and possible career choices.
- YouthRules for Teens: U.S. Department of Labor site outlining federal and state labor laws.
National Resources for Teens With Special Needs:
- Center on Education and Work (CEW): Resources to enhance the quality of career-related learning for all individuals in schools, colleges, and the workplace.
- NCWYD/Youth: National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability for Youth site with activities and links to help young people with disabilities find and keep a job.
- Kids As Self Advocates Work Resources: stories told by youth and young adults with disabilities and links to tips and information.
- Resources for Teen Job Hunters: PACER Center's employment resources, information, and advice.
- Job Accommodation Network: Provides information about work accommodation solutions.
Washington State-Specific Resources for Teens With Special Needs:
- Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology (DO-IT): University of Washington program that enables high school students with disabilities to explore careers and to gain the prerequisite knowledge needed for success in college and employment.
- People Working: Washington Initiative for Supportive Employment's Wikispace that showcases stories and videos of people with disabilities working in the Northwest.
- Ticket-to-Work (TTW): A program that provides employment support services for people with disabilities between the ages of 18-64 who want to work.