While the two older Eberle children, ages nine and 11, would help out behind the counter getting bakery items for customers and taking coffee orders, the younger ones helped in the back room by doing dishes and other cleanup work, placing cupcake liners in the pans and taking stock of inventory.

“We live most of our lives here. Why can’t they do their chores here?” Vickie Eberle said. “We are just trying to raise children who are useful in the community and who are respectful and responsible.”

But the state Department of Workforce Development must follow state law.

According to state law, children under the age of 14 may not be employed. Twelve and 13-year-olds may be employed at a parent-owned business with a work permit. With the exception of agriculture and domestic employment, minors must have a work permit before beginning work.

“Shortly after we opened someone called the Federal Labor Bureau,” Curtis Eberle said. “They don’t tell you who complained or why. At that time we talked about the kids helping. Once we solely owned the place, we were under the impression the kids would be able to help.”

That turned out not to be the case.