Summer, believe it or not, is just around the corner. Maybe your kids, under 16, are looking for a way to make money this summer. I know my adult kids are pretty entrepreneurial and liked making their own money; now my 13 year old does as well. I want to share some easy ways for kids to make money this summer, or anytime of the year really.

We Do Not Pay Allowance

We don’t pay for chores. I know, this is controversial to some. But here’s the thing, I don’t get paid to take care of my house or personal responsibilities. I wanted my kids to understand that we do chores because we have the privilege of living in a home and having personal items. Now that doesn’t mean I never give my 13 year old money; but we don’t have a set allowance that she gets regularly.

I think if you want to give your kids money, consider giving them special projects as “side jobs” that you are willing to pay a set amount for.

Why Should a Kid Have a Business?

I know many people will say, let them be kids. I’m all for that; I don’t want to rob anyone child of that short and precious time of childhood. But a business and a job a very different things. A job is working on other people’s schedules and usually involves doing things we don’t like. A business works around your schedule (you don’t see stores opening at your convenience) and doing something you already love.

I also believe that we sell kids short. They have a lot to offer and giving them an opportunity to shine with a money-making business is just one of them.

Honestly, I’d rather my kid be working as an entrepreneur than spending hours playing video games or on a cell phone.

Ways for Kids to Make Money

What are some good ways for kids to earn money? Yes! But before we get into the list of ways kids can make money, let’s talk safety. It should be obvious that you need to make sure that any adult your child “works” for is a safe adult. Personally I think you or your spouse should be with your child during any working situation. Your child’s safety comes first!

Also make sure what laws your city or state has concerning minors and money. For instance, how much money can a minor make before taxes are owed. Most kids are going to make money via cash but that doesn’t necessarily mean they have no tax responsibility.

Kids Making Money Should Save

Talk to you kids about money management before you decide HOW they are going to make money. I personally think you have a huge opportunity to teach life-long financial responsibility with their little side business.

• Will you require them to save a certain percentage? I’d recommend 10% minimum.
• Are you tithers? If you tithe to your church then you should definitely talk to you children about tithing. But let them decide, from their heart, if they’ll tithe from their income. The tithe of our finances is 10%, talk to them about that amount and decide if they’ll tithe to the children’s ministry or to the main church tithe.
• How will kids making money save their money? Opening a savings account can be a great way to teach savings and make younger kids feel especially grown up; they may take the savings more seriously. This also gives older kids an opportunity to learn how to manage a bank account.
• You may want to consider opening a checking account with older pre-teens as well.

A List of Jobs for Kids to Make Money

This list is just meant to be a jumping off point. Think about what your child is already talented in, excited about, talks about constantly; help them to turn that into a business they can thrive in!

A Service Business for Kids

A Pet Service Business
Pet sitting, cleaning small animal cages, cleaning dog poo from the yard, dog walking, pet grooming (wash, brush, trim nails)
Lawn Care and Weed Pulling
Mowing, trimming bushes, pulling weeds, etc.
Car Cleaning
Washing outside of car, cleaning and detailing the inside of the cars..
House Cleaning
Is your child a great cleaner? This could be a great job for them. Or have them offer “spot” cleaning, like just bathrooms or mopping weekly.
Babysitting
A tried and true way to make money for responsible and mature pre-teens. Consider just offering “mother’s helpers” service when the parents are home but need to get tasks accomplished.
Helping Out of Town Neighbors
Water plants, pick up newspaper and mail, take care of animals
Holiday Helpers
Have a gift wrapping station or help to set up and take down decorations.
Painting
Have a awesome DIY kiddo? Let them offer to do painting.

Sales Based Business for Kids

Lemonade Stand…Coffee Stand?
Why not switch up that old lemonade stand for a coffee stand? If you preteen likes to bake you could offer baked goods too. This works especially well for early bird kiddos.
Yard / Garage Sale
Need to de-clutter? Pay the kids to do that and/or let them sell un-needed items in a garage sale. See How to Have a Awesome Garage Sale

Skills Bases Business for Kids

Arts and Crafts
If your child is artsy let them sell art work, jewelry or other craft projects. Consider opening an Etsy for a larger audience.
Online Business
Start a blog! This can be a way to make an extra income as well as becoming a more proficient writer. This could be a great homeschool subject too!
Tech Jobs
Is your preteen a technically savvy kid? Can they make and edit videos or create a website? What about editing photos? There are so many ways to use the love a technology for a small business.
Sewing and Other Needlework Crafts
If you child can sew, knit or crochet then making small projects like a coffee cozy, aprons or dresses could be a great income. What about a mending business?
Tutor Younger Kids
Help younger kids with reading, math or any subject they have a passion for and are proficient in.

Be sure to see Homestead Kids Businesses Too!

I hope this helps get you and your kiddo started on a business idea that can make a little income. Remember instilling a entrepreneurial spirit now can mean great things for your son or daughter in the future!

Have you help you kid make money with a business of their own? Tell us about it in the comments!