11 Best Jobs For 12 Year Olds To Make Money

11 Best Jobs for 12 Year Olds To Make Money

Starting to earn money at a young age can change a life. It teaches kids about money, independence, and hard work. At 12, kids can try different jobs, from babysitting to crafting.

Learning to earn money is key for kids. It helps them gain skills, feel confident, and see the value of work. We’ll look at some top ways for 12-year-olds to make money.

Key Takeaways

• 12-year-olds can start with traditional jobs like babysitting or pet-sitting.
• Creative ventures like crafting or recycling can be profitable.
• Earning money teaches financial responsibility and independence.
• Kids can develop new skills and build confidence through work.
• Understanding the value of hard work is essential for young entrepreneurs.

Why 12-Year-Olds Should Consider Working

Working at a young age offers many benefits for kids. It teaches them important life skills and prepares them for the future.

Building Responsibility and Work Ethic

Young children who work learn to be responsible and have a strong work ethic. They understand the value of being reliable and working hard. For example, caring for a neighbor’s pet teaches them to be accountable.

Learning Money Management Skills

Jobs help kids learn to manage their money well. They learn to budget, save, and make smart spending choices. Warren Buffett once said, “Do what you would do if you were going to be there forever.” This shows the value of making good financial decisions early on.

Skill Learned	Benefit
Budgeting	Prioritizes spending
Saving	Builds financial security

Developing Confidence and Independence

Working boosts kids’ confidence and independence. They learn to tackle new challenges and reach their goals. Starting a small business, like a lemonade stand, teaches them to interact with customers and manage their own business.

Working at a young age gives kids valuable experiences that shape their future.

Legal Considerations for Child Employment

It’s important for 12-year-olds to know the laws about working. Child labor laws protect young workers from bad jobs and unsafe places. They make sure kids are not overworked or treated unfairly.

Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Guidelines

The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) has rules for kids working. It says what jobs and hours are okay for 12-year-olds. Key FLSA guidelines include:

Age	Permitted Work Hours	Job Types
12-13 years	Outside school hours	Babysitting, lawn care, delivering newspapers
14-15 years	Limited hours outside school	Retail, food service, certain office work

State-Specific Regulations

States also have their own rules for kids working. These rules might be stricter than federal laws. They might require work permits or limit certain jobs.

It’s key for kids and their parents to know these state rules. This helps everyone follow the law and stay safe.

11 Best Jobs for 12 Year Olds To Make Money

Find out the top jobs for 12-year-olds to earn money and learn new skills. At this age, kids can start exploring different opportunities. These jobs not only help them earn money but also teach them important life skills like responsibility and time management.

Overview of Job Options

There are many job options for 12-year-olds. They range from traditional tasks like lawn mowing and babysitting to creative ventures like selling arts and crafts. Some of the most popular jobs include:

• Lawn mowing and yard work
• Pet sitting and dog walking
• Babysitting (with parental supervision)
• Car washing services
• Lemonade or refreshment stands
• Helping with household chores
• Tutoring younger students
• Arts and crafts sales
• Tech help for neighbors
• Gardening and plant care
• Holiday-themed services

Safety Considerations for All Jobs

When looking for jobs, safety is key for 12-year-olds and their parents. It’s important to understand the tasks, have the right training or supervision, and know about possible dangers. For example, jobs with sharp objects or heavy machinery need adult help. Tasks like pet sitting require a real love and understanding of animals.

1. Lawn Mowing and Yard Work

Helping with lawn care and yard work is a great way for 12-year-olds to learn. It teaches them responsibility and how to keep outdoor spaces nice.

Getting Started with Lawn Care

To start a lawn mowing business, young teens should talk to their parents first. They need to get any needed permissions. They should also find clients, like neighbors and family friends.

Required Equipment and Supplies

For lawn care, you need a lawn mower, rake, and edger. Don’t forget safety gear like gloves and glasses. You can start small by borrowing or using manual tools.

Setting Competitive Rates

To set good rates, young entrepreneurs should look at what others charge. Consider the lawn size, job complexity, and time needed. This helps set fair prices.

Safety Considerations

Safety is key in lawn care. Young workers should learn to use equipment safely. They should wear protective gear and stay alert to avoid accidents.

• Always wear safety glasses and gloves.
• Ensure the lawn is clear of debris before mowing.
• Never mow the lawn when it’s wet.

2. Pet Sitting and Dog Walking

Pet sitting and dog walking are great jobs for 12-year-olds who love animals. They get to spend time with pets and learn about responsibility and business.

Building a Pet Care Business

Start by talking to your parents about your pet care business. They can guide you on the duties and keep you safe. Advertise your services with flyers, social media, or community boards.

Responsibilities and Expectations

As a pet sitter or dog walker, you’ll feed, walk, and play with pets. It’s important to know the pet’s needs, health issues, and emergency contacts.

Setting Your Rates

Look at what other young pet sitters charge to set good rates. Think about visit length, pet number, and extra tasks.

Marketing Your Services

Good marketing is key. Use word-of-mouth, flyers, and social media to find clients. A pet care expert says, “The key to a successful pet sitting business is building trust with pet owners.”

Offer reliable, caring services to build a strong reputation.

3. Babysitting (With Parental Supervision)

With a parent nearby, 12-year-olds can start babysitting. It’s a chance to learn responsibility and gain confidence. They also get to see how to meet others’ needs.

Age-Appropriate Babysitting Tasks

At 12, teens can help with homework, make simple snacks, and play with younger kids. It’s key to pick tasks that are safe and right for their age.

Safety Training and Certification

Before babysitting, it’s smart for teens to learn basic safety. Certifications in CPR and first aid are very helpful. Many groups offer special courses for young babysitters.

Finding Babysitting Opportunities

To find babysitting jobs, 12-year-olds can ask family friends or neighbors. Creating flyers or using social media with permission can also help.

Setting Boundaries and Expectations

Young babysitters need to know about setting rules and expectations. This includes talking about rules with parents, knowing emergency plans, and handling surprises.

• Discuss job expectations with the parents beforehand.
• Establish clear rules and boundaries for the children.
• Have a plan in place for emergencies.

4. Car Washing Services

Starting a car washing business is a great idea for 12-year-olds. It’s a service that people always need. With the right steps, it can be both fun and profitable.

Setting Up Your Car Wash Business

To start, plan your business well. Pick a name, make flyers, and find your customers. Offer discounts for new customers or referrals to grow your business.

Necessary Supplies and Equipment

You’ll need basic items like a bucket, car wash soap, sponges, and towels. A hose with a spray nozzle is key for washing cars. Think about getting a water-saving system to cut down on water costs.

Pricing and Marketing Strategies

Prices will vary based on the car size and service level. For marketing, use social media with your parents’ help. Also, hand out flyers and ask customers to tell their friends.

Service	Price Range
Basic Car Wash	$5-$10
Deluxe Car Wash (includes interior cleaning)	$15-$25

By following these steps and focusing on great service, you can make your car washing business a success.

5. Lemonade or Refreshment Stands

Lemonade stands have been a key part of young entrepreneurship for many years. They teach kids important business skills. Running a lemonade stand is a great way for 12-year-olds to make money and learn about business.

Planning Your Stand

Before starting your lemonade stand, plan well. Choose a busy spot, like near a park or in front of your house. Think about what refreshments you can offer that will attract customers. Create a simple business plan that outlines what you’ll sell, prices, and how you’ll manage money.

Sourcing Ingredients and Supplies

Getting the right ingredients and supplies is important. You’ll need fresh lemons, sugar, water, and cups. You might also want to offer other drinks or snacks. Buy from local stores to save money. Always check the quality of your ingredients to keep customers happy.

Health and Safety Guidelines

Keeping your stand clean and safe is essential. Wash your hands often and make sure all items are clean. Using disposable cups and utensils can help prevent contamination. Know any local rules about selling food and drinks.

Attracting Customers

Getting people to come to your stand is important. Use bright signs and think about special deals to attract customers. Be friendly and offer great service to your community. Use social media with your parents’ help to promote your stand and get more customers.

6. Helping with Household Chores

Helping with household chores is a great way for 12-year-olds to earn money. It also teaches them important life skills. By doing chores, they learn to be responsible and work as a team.

Negotiating Payment for Chores

Negotiating payment for chores is a key skill for 12-year-olds. It’s important to talk and agree on the pay for each task with parents. Being open about the effort and value helps find a fair price.

Age-Appropriate Household Tasks

At 12, kids can do many tasks like cleaning their room, helping with laundry, and simple meal prep. It’s important to choose tasks they can do well to build confidence.

Task	Frequency	Potential Earnings
Cleaning Room	Weekly	$5-$10
Laundry Assistance	Bi-Weekly	$10-$15
Simple Meal Prep	Daily	$5-$10

Creating a Chore Schedule

Creating a schedule helps organize tasks and keep them on time. A visual schedule is great for young teens to stay on track. It’s good to review and change the schedule as needed.

7. Tutoring Younger Students

If you’re a 12-year-old who loves learning and does well in school, think about tutoring younger kids. Tutoring is rewarding. It lets you share your knowledge and earn money.

Identifying Your Academic Strengths

First, figure out what subjects you’re really good at. Are you a math whiz, a reading pro, or a science star? Make a list of your strengths. For example, if math is your thing, you can help younger students with their homework or explain fractions and algebra.

Be honest with yourself about what you’re good at. This will make your tutoring more effective.

Finding Tutoring Opportunities

To find tutoring gigs, ask your parents or teachers if they know anyone who needs help. You can also offer your services to family friends or neighbors with young kids. Create flyers to advertise your tutoring services. Highlight your strengths and the subjects you can help with. For instance, a flyer might say, “Experienced young tutor available for math and reading help. Competitive rates!”

Setting Up Lesson Plans

Once you’ve found a student, make a simple lesson plan. It should include reviewing their schoolwork, practicing problems, or reading together. Be flexible and adjust your plan as needed. For example, if you’re tutoring in reading, start with simple stories and move to more complex texts as they get better.

Determining Fair Rates

Talk to your parents about what you should charge. Consider your time and expertise. Look at what other young tutors charge to get an idea. You might start with a lower rate and increase it as you gain more experience. Some young tutors charge between $10 to $15 per hour. “Tutoring not only helps the student but also reinforces the tutor’s understanding of the subject.” – Education Expert

Subject	Hourly Rate	Experience Level
Math	$12	Beginner
Reading	$10	Intermediate
Science	$15	Advanced

8. Arts and Crafts Sales

Arts and crafts sales are a great way for 12-year-olds to make money from their creativity. With some guidance, they can turn their handmade crafts into a business.

Creating Marketable Crafts

To succeed, 12-year-olds need to make crafts that people want to buy. This means:

• Keeping up with current trends and popular items
• Improving their crafting skills
• Using good materials to make sure their crafts last

By focusing on these areas, young crafters can make items that stand out and sell well.

Calculating Costs and Pricing

Setting the right price is key for any business. To price their crafts correctly, 12-year-olds should:

1. Figure out the cost of materials
2. Think about how long it takes to make each craft
3. Look at what similar items are selling for

Selling Online with Parental Help

Selling online can reach more customers. With help from parents, 12-year-olds can:

• Set up an online store on sites like Etsy (with adult supervision)
• Use social media to promote their crafts
• Take good, well-lit photos of their products

Online selling needs careful management, but it can be very rewarding.

Local Markets and Craft Fairs

Local markets and craft fairs are also good places to sell arts and crafts. These events offer:

• Chances to meet local customers
• Opportunities to get feedback on their products
• A chance to show off their talents

By setting up an attractive display and being ready to talk to buyers, 12-year-olds can make the most of these events.

9. Tech Help for Neighbors

In today’s world, 12-year-olds can use their tech skills to help neighbors. They’ve grown up with smartphones, tablets, and computers. This makes them perfect for tech help jobs.

Technology Skills 12-Year-Olds Can Offer

Twelve-year-olds can do many tech jobs. They can set up new devices, fix common problems, and teach basic computer skills. They can also help with email, social media, and apps. Some may even know basic coding or website design.

Setting Up Your Tech Help Service

To start, 12-year-olds need to know what they’re good at. They should make a list of services and prices with their parents. Creating flyers or posters to advertise is also a good idea.

Pricing Your Services

Prices depend on the service and expertise needed. For example, setting up a new smartphone costs more than helping with email. A table with services and prices helps clients understand costs.

Service	Price
Setting up a new smartphone	$10-$20
Basic computer troubleshooting	$5-$10
Teaching basic computer skills	$15-$30 per hour

Maintaining Professional Boundaries

It’s key for 12-year-olds to keep professional boundaries. They should respect clients’ time and property. They should also be clear about what they offer and how much it costs. Parental supervision helps keep these boundaries.

10. Gardening and Plant Care

Twelve-year-olds can make money by gardening and caring for plants. This activity teaches them about responsibility and nurturing. It also lets them earn by helping neighbors and family friends with their gardens.

Starting a Garden Maintenance Service

To start a garden service, 12-year-olds should talk to their parents first. They can then find clients like neighbors or family friends. Making a simple flyer or posting on social media can help get the word out.

Necessary Tools and Knowledge

They’ll need basic gardening tools like a watering can, rake, and gloves. It’s also important to know about plants, watering, and pests. Online resources or local workshops can teach them a lot.

Seasonal Gardening Opportunities

Gardening needs change with the seasons. In spring, planting is popular. Summer needs watering and weeding. Autumn is for leaf cleanup, and winter is for garden prep or indoor plants.

Setting Fair Prices

Prices should match the service, time, and the child’s skill level. A table can help figure out fair prices:

Service	Price Range
Lawn mowing	$15-$30
Gardening maintenance	$20-$40
Plant watering	$10-$20

By starting a gardening and plant care service, 12-year-olds can learn and earn. With the right tools, knowledge, and prices, they can run a successful service.

11. Holiday-Themed Services

As the holiday season gets closer, 12-year-olds can make money with festive services. It’s a fun way to earn while spreading holiday joy.

Seasonal Job Opportunities

Holidays like Christmas, Halloween, or Thanksgiving bring a demand for special services. Kids can decorate homes, make holiday crafts, or help with cooking. “The holiday season is a time for creativity and giving,” says a young entrepreneur. “Offering holiday-themed services not only earns me money but also allows me to be part of the festive spirit.”

Marketing Seasonal Services

To market holiday services well, know your audience and tailor your approach. Use social media, flyers, or notices with parental help. Emphasize the festive aspects of your services to attract holiday helpers.

Planning Ahead for Seasonal Work

Planning is key to making the most of holiday work. Research in-demand services and prepare early. Setting clear goals helps stay focused and motivated.

By understanding and marketing holiday services well, 12-year-olds can make the holiday season rewarding. It’s a chance to earn and enjoy the season.

Parental Involvement and Supervision

Supporting your child in their business needs a balance. As a parent, being involved can really help them learn and succeed.

Balancing Independence and Safety

It’s important to let your child make decisions but also keep them safe. Supervision is key, like with money or talking to clients. Let them own their business but be there to guide them.

You can help with managing money, teaching them about financial literacy and being responsible.

Supporting Your Child’s Business Venture

Your support can really help your child’s business. You can help with ideas, setting up a space, or marketing. Your help keeps them motivated and focused.

Try being a mentor to guide them through tough times and celebrate wins. This strengthens your bond and teaches them important skills.

Being involved and supportive teaches your child about hard work, responsibility, and independence. It helps them through the ups and downs of business.

Managing Earnings and Financial Literacy

When 12-year-olds start earning money, it’s key to teach them how to manage it well. This skill will help them make smart money choices for the rest of their lives.

Setting Up a Savings Plan

It’s important to encourage young workers to save some of their earnings. A savings plan teaches them the value of saving for the future. Consider opening a savings account just for their money, making it easier to keep track.

A basic savings plan can have three parts: short-term, medium-term, and long-term goals. For instance, saving for a new bike is a short-term goal. Saving for college is a long-term goal.

Savings Goal	Timeframe	Target Amount
Short-term	Less than 6 months	$100
Medium-term	6 months to 1 year	$500
Long-term	More than 1 year	$1000

Teaching Basic Money Management

Basic money management means knowing how to budget, spend wisely, and avoid debt. Young workers should learn to divide their earnings into saving, spending, and giving.

The 50/30/20 rule is a good starting point: 50% for necessary expenses, 30% for fun spending, and 20% for saving and giving. This rule helps them focus on saving and spending wisely.

Balancing Work, School, and Play

Young teenagers need to find a balance between work, school, and fun. Starting their first jobs, they must make sure work doesn’t get in the way of school or free time. A balanced life is key to staying mentally and physically healthy. As Stephen Covey said, “The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”.

Creating a Healthy Schedule

To keep a healthy balance, 12-year-olds should plan out their time. They should set aside time for work, school, homework, and fun. It’s important to prioritize tasks and set realistic goals. For example, they can choose specific days for work and keep other days for school and play.

Avoiding Burnout

It’s vital for young workers to avoid burnout. Knowing the signs of burnout, like feeling tired or unmotivated, helps prevent it. Taking breaks, resting well, and doing things they enjoy can help avoid burnout. As “Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass under trees on a summer’s day, listening to the murmur of the water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is by no means a waste of time.”

– John Lubbock.

FAQ

What are some good jobs for 12-year-olds to make money?

Good jobs for 12-year-olds include lawn mowing and pet sitting. Babysitting, car washing, and running a lemonade stand are also great options.

 

Are there any laws regulating child labor?

Yes, the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and state laws control child labor. They set rules for jobs and hours 12-year-olds can work.

 

How can 12-year-olds get started with lawn care?

To start lawn care, 12-year-olds can offer to mow lawns for neighbors. They should invest in the right equipment and set fair prices.

 

What are some safety considerations for 12-year-olds starting a pet sitting or dog walking business?

Safety first! Understand pet behavior and have the right supplies. Be cautious of extreme weather and harmful substances.

 

How can 12-year-olds determine fair rates for their services?

To find fair rates, 12-year-olds should research what others charge. They should also think about their costs and time. Being ready to negotiate is key.

 

What are some tips for 12-year-olds to manage their earnings?

Set up a savings plan and learn about money management. Consider donating to charity or saving for the future.

 

How can parents support their 12-year-old’s business venture?

Parents can guide and help with marketing and money. They should supervise but let their child take charge.

 

What are some seasonal job opportunities for 12-year-olds?

Seasonal jobs include holiday services and gardening. These jobs take advantage of the demand during certain times of the year.

 

How can 12-year-olds balance work, school, and play?

Create a schedule and prioritize tasks. Make sure to rest and enjoy leisure activities too.

 

Are there any benefits to 12-year-olds earning money?

Yes, earning money helps build responsibility and teaches money skills. It also boosts confidence and independence.

Conclusion

Twelve-year-olds have many ways to earn money and learn new skills. Jobs like lawn mowing, pet sitting, tutoring, and tech help are great options. They help young people gain experience and build confidence.

It’s important to remember the legal rules, like the Fair Labor Standards Act, and state laws when kids work. Parents play a big role in making sure kids work safely and are supported.

Working at a young age helps kids learn important life skills. They learn about responsibility, managing money, and becoming independent. This prepares them to make smart choices about their future.

In short, the jobs and activities mentioned are a good start for young people. They help with learning about money and growing personally.