As many students start to become hiring age, they have started to look for an easy job to work for the summer.

Playgrounds on Dale Mabry is one such place where a lot of Robinson students have found work. A lot of teens worry that they won’t have enough time to work while meeting commitments for their other extra curricular activities. Kaelin Kurry (’25) has not had this problem while working at Playgrounds.

“I would say it’s a pretty flexible job, if you really need to take time off for an event or for sports our manager will let you take off.” Kurry said.

Playgrounds is an indoor bounce-castle park, with a small coffee shop for parents at the front entrance. A lot of the job is watching and interacting with elementary-aged kids.

“We host birthday parties for little kids and for some you can pay to have them after hours. During non-school days, breaks and summer we host camp for kids ages four and up. We take care of them from 8:30 am- 5:30 pm. You can also work the front of house position where you make coffees and check people in.” Kurry said.

They accept applications from anyone as young as 14 on their website, making $11.00 an hour. Plus, whatever tips you make at the counter will go directly to you.

Dominic Hernandez (’24) is a life guard at the Tampa YMCA.  While life-guarding requires more training than many other first job options, It can also prove to be more rewarding. According to Hernandez, the worst part was getting approved for the job.

“It was a pain for me to wait until I received emails and text messages to get accepted,” said Hernandez.

The hiring process has to be as intense as it is, because one may be put in the situation where you actually have to stop a person from drowning. Even if you never have to use all that training, it’s still important to consider that responsibility when applying, and the effect it may have on you mentally.

“It’s not draining. Just the thought of having to save someone is what keeps me active and such.” Hernandez said.

The YMCA also can offer flexible hours if any other priority should arise during your scheduled work days.

“I love my job and the crew I work with is amazing and I would recommend it to people,” Hernandez said.