The kids may just want some extra cash to buy something special, save it for the future or give it away to those in need. Whatever their reason is, parents of such children should encourage them to work towards their goals.
Here are some great money-making ideas for kids from Diane Bates, author of Money Smart Kids (Australia: Ibis Publishing, 2005).
Cleaning Jobs
There are so many things that constantly need to be cleaned but people just don’t have the time or the enthusiasm to clean them. House cleaning, car washing, garage clearing and window cleaning are some jobs kids can consider. However, they do need proper equipment and follow safety measures whenever using equipment or chemicals to clean or wash.
House-Minding
Many people need house-minding services when they are away on holidays for long periods of time. They don’t need major cleaning but just someone to pick up the mail, water the plants and perhaps feed and walk the dogs. A house-minder should check that everything is in place and lock up doors and secure windows before leaving the house.
Babysitting
Caring for other people’s kids is a big responsibility. So the babysitter should organize everything with the baby’s parents properly before they leave for the evening. Make sure the parents' contact numbers and other emergency numbers are easily accessed. Check with the parents for anything that needs clarification – how to use the microwave, is it alright to watch TV, is it okay to have some snacks, etc.
Being a Companion to Elderly People
There are sure to be elderly people in the neighborhood who love having a younger person for company every now and then. A companion’s job is just that – being a companion. That means reading to them, playing board games, going to the library, food shopping and having a walk together.
Caregiver’s Helper
Some elderly or disabled people may have someone in the family, for instance a spouse or a parent, who takes care of them full-time. These carers often don’t have much time of their own. So by being a carer’s helper, the young worker can relieve the carer for a few hours so that he or she can take a break and go have a hair cut, watch a movie or do grocery shopping.
Organizing Kids’ Playgroups
Many parents sometimes need somebody to watch their kids on a weekend afternoon. So why not organize a kids’ playgroup for the kids so that the parents can have a few hours of peace? The playgroup organizer can let the kids play in her backyard or set up an area in the house to have some fun activities such as story-telling, singing, dancing, drawing and watching cartoons.
Leaflet and Newspaper Delivery
Retailers and local businesses often need somebody to deliver flyers, leaflets and other advertising materials. So do newspaper agents and distributors. This job is great for the body too as it involves a fair bit of walking or bicycling.
Gardening
Some people, particularly older people, may find it difficult to weed, mow grass, water plants and rake leaves. All the bending and squatting can cause backache and soreness to seniors. But most young people will be able to handle these tasks easily. So why not get paid for gardening?
Growing Produce in Backyard
Enterprising young people with a big backyard, green thumb and love for greens should try this out. There are many things that can be planted and sold. Fruits, vegetables, flowers and herbs are homegrown produce with commercial value. These can be sold at the local market or supplied to a small greengrocer.
Taking Part in Contests
There are so many contests designed for kids and adolescents such as those for drawing, coloring, writing stories and singing. Some offer very lucrative cash or other attractive prizes. Many contests are often advertised in newspapers, magazines, libraries, schools and even on food packets. Enter as many contests as possible according to the talents the child has.
It’s great if kids show signs of entrepreneurship early in life. Parents should be supportive and give practical job ideas suitable for young entrepreneurs. Getting started may take a while but if the kids persevere, they’ll be able to find good ways to make money soon.
Related Articles:
Positive Money Attitude for Kids
 |
