how to make money as a kid

How to Make Money as a Kid: 20 Fun & Easy Ways to Start Earning

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Now, you’re probably here because you reached a point in your life where your weekly allowance is not enough to buy the things you want.

Maybe you want to buy something that your parents strictly refuse to or the price of which is just not justifiable for their budget.

Maybe you got your first boyfriend or girlfriend, their birthday is approaching and you want to give them something special!

Whatever the situation, the problem is that you’re young, you need money, but everyone around you is telling you to just study well and do your homework…

Well firstly, I want to salute you! You’re taking the first steps towards financial indepencence at such a young age that most of us wish we started at.

The good thing is that you are in the right place, and I’ll do my best to provide you with an actual list of ideas you can start working on now and start earning money in no time.

And I promise you those first dollars you earn will make you feel on top of the world. Your own cash will give you a taste of independence and responsibility.

The truth is, there are plenty of fun and creative ways to earn money – and even learn important skills in the process.

You will have a chance to explore your talents, build confidence, and discover what you enjoy. And while success might not happen overnight, starting young can teach you budgeting, saving, and how to work hard for something you want.

Whether you’re ready to dive into chores, run a lemonade stand, or launch a mini online business, there’s something here for everyone.

So, let’s get started and find your next big money-making idea! Who knows, maybe you’ll be the next kid millionaire?

1. Make a Lemonade Stand

lemonade stand
Earning Potential: Medium ($1 per cup, potential for $20-$30)
Difficulty: Easy (simple setup and supplies)
Time Needed: Low (a few hours on a warm day)

Starting a lemonade stand is a super fun way to make money and learn some business skills! All you need is some lemonade, a little creativity, and a big smile.

Want to make your stand special? Try adding some bubbles by mixing in seltzer water for a fizzy lemonade option. You can even charge a little more for this “fizzy fun” drink!

Bright, colorful signs are a must! Grab markers, glitter, and even balloons to make your stand pop. The more eye-catching it is, the more customers will come by.

Why stop at lemonade?

Offer snacks like popcorn, pretzels, or granola bars to give people more choices. These little extras can help you make even more money!

Try cool deals, too!

You could do “Buy One, Get One Free” for the first few days, or maybe a “Happy Hour” with cheaper drinks. People love a good deal, and they’ll come running!

Setting up a lemonade stand is also a great way to learn about running a business. You’ll get to practice setting prices, making change, and talking to customers, all in a fun way.

Before you set up, make sure to check if you need a permit to sell lemonade. Some places have rules, and it’s always smart to do things the right way.

And here’s the best part: people will love seeing a kid working hard and having fun. They’ll walk away with a smile and maybe an extra cup of lemonade!

So grab your lemons, get your stand ready, and start making money while having a blast!

2. Start a YouTube Channel

phone with youtube logo
Earning Potential: High ($50-$200/month with ads, sponsorships, or merch as your audience grows)
Difficulty: Medium (requires content ideas, editing, and marketing)
Time Needed: High (consistent uploads and engagement needed for growth)

Starting a YouTube channel is an exciting way to share your favorite hobbies and make videos for people all over the world. All you need is a phone, some cool ideas, and maybe a little help from your parents.

You can make videos about anything you love! Whether it’s gaming, cooking, art, or even toy reviews, there’s an audience out there for every idea.

The best part? You don’t have to show your face if you don’t want to. With AI tools, you can make videos without ever appearing on screen or even talking.

If you do want to show your face but need parental approval, remember you’ll need a thousand subscribers before you can earn money from ads. But ads aren’t the only way to make money!

You can sell your own merch, like T-shirts or stickers, to fans. People can also donate to support you, or you could even get sponsorships with cool brands.

Once your channel grows, you can even set up a subscriber plan where fans pay to see exclusive content. There are so many ways to turn your channel into something big!

One key to success is being consistent.

It’s easy to get discouraged in the beginning as it’s hard to get views as a newcomer.

But remember, every successful YouTuber started from zero! You need to keep uploading videos regularly, even if it’s just one a week.

You don’t need expensive equipment, either. Your phone camera, a ring light, and a simple editing app are more than enough to start.

With a bit of help from your parents, you’ll learn how to create, edit, and share your content with the world. Each video is a step toward building your audience and your channel.

So, have fun and be creative! Starting a YouTube channel is a chance to learn, share, and maybe even earn some cash doing what you love.

3. Make Greeting Cards

greeting cards pastel
Earning Potential: Low ($1-$3 per card)
Difficulty: Easy (basic art and design skills)
Time Needed: Medium (time to create and sell cards)

Making and selling greeting cards is a fun way to earn money while spreading joy! You only need some paper, markers, and a few creative ideas.

Start with simple designs. Hearts, stars, or cute animals can make any card feel special.

Try adding extra touches like glitter, stickers, or pressed flowers. These details make each card unique and even more memorable.

Create cards for birthdays, holidays, or “just because” moments. People love buying handmade cards that feel personal.

Think of funny or clever themes, too! Jokes on “Thank You” cards or bright colors on “Get Well Soon” cards can make people smile.

Offer custom cards with names or favorite colors. Customers love personalized cards, and you can charge a bit more for them.

If you like using tech, try online design tools to make digital cards. You can print these at home and have different designs ready to sell.

Set up a stand in your neighborhood or sell your cards online with a parent’s help. You could even ask local stores if they’d display your cards.

Offer discounts on card packs, like five or ten cards together. This is a great way to encourage people to buy more.

Making greeting cards is a creative way to make money and bring happiness. Have fun with it, and see where your ideas take you!

4. Create and Sell Friendship Bracelets

Content multiethnic girls with beads on bed
Earning Potential: Low ($2-$5 per bracelet)
Difficulty: Easy (simple crafting skills)
Time Needed: Medium (time to make and sell each bracelet)

Creating and selling friendship bracelets is a fun and easy way to make money while sharing something special with others.

All you need are some colorful threads, beads, and a bit of patience.

Start by choosing colors and patterns that stand out. Bright colors, like neon or pastels, are popular choices and make the bracelets eye-catching.

Practice making different styles, like simple braids, twists, or bead patterns. The more designs you have, the more likely you’ll find a style everyone loves.

  • Here are some popular styles, colors, and patterns to try:
    • Chevron Pattern: This classic “V” shape is bold and stands out.
    • Rainbow Colors: A mix of colors that everyone loves, especially for a happy, playful look.
    • Braided Styles: Simple braids or double braids are easy and look great.
    • Pastel Colors: Light pink, lavender, and mint green are gentle, trendy colors.
    • Beaded Patterns: Adding beads for names or initials makes each bracelet unique.

When it comes to selling, set up a small stand in your neighborhood, especially during community events or fairs. These places are perfect for finding customers looking for something unique.

Online marketplaces like Etsy are great for selling handmade jewelry, and your parents can help set up a store.

You could also try social media platforms to show off your designs and connect with potential buyers.

Another idea is to ask local shops if they’ll display your bracelets for sale. Some small boutiques or gift stores might love the idea of adding handmade items to their shelves.

Consider offering deals for buying multiple bracelets, like “Buy 2, Get 1 Free.” This makes people more likely to buy a few at a time, which is great for your sales.

Making friendship bracelets is a creative way to earn money while doing something you enjoy. Each bracelet you sell is a little piece of your creativity that someone else gets to wear!

5. Host a Garage Sale with Parents

Flea market, Dishes, Garage sale
Earning Potential: Medium ($50-$100+ depending on items sold)
Difficulty: Easy (sorting items and handling money)
Time Needed: Low (usually a one-day event)

Hosting a garage sale with your parents is a fantastic way to make money while clearing out old stuff you no longer use.

I can guarantee your mom would be thrilled for some more free space in the house! Speaking from experience.

Plus, it’s a great excuse to spend time together and learn some basic sales skills.

Start by gathering items around the house that are in good condition but no longer needed.

Some items that are popular at garage sales are:

  • Toys
  • Books
  • Clothes
  • Games

Organize everything into groups to make it easy for people to browse. Setting up tables with signs like “Toys” or “Books” helps shoppers find what they’re interested in quickly.

Make colorful signs and put them up around your neighborhood a few days before the sale. A big, clear sign with the time and date of the sale will help bring in more people.

Consider setting up a little snack or lemonade stand during the sale. It’s an extra way to earn a few more dollars while giving shoppers something to enjoy.

To price your items, keep things affordable.

People love a good deal, and pricing items low means they’ll likely buy more.

Garage sales can also be a great time to practice your people skills. Greet each customer with a smile and thank them if they buy something.

Plus, you can use use your youthful charm as an advantage! People love buying from kids and especially love seeing them proactive and trying to learn new skills.

At the end of the day, count up your earnings and celebrate a job well done! Hosting a garage sale is a simple, fun way to make extra money and learn how to run a little business with your family’s help.

6. Host a Bake Sale

Cupcake, Cupcakes, Treats, bake sale
Earning Potential: Medium ($1-$3 per treat; potential for $30-$50 total)
Difficulty: Medium (requires baking skills and setup)
Time Needed: Medium (time for baking and selling)

If you have a passion for baking and a sweet tooth, hosting a bake sale is a great way to make money and have fun doing it!

You can whip up delicious treats like cookies, cupcakes, brownies, muffins, or pies and sell them to hungry customers.

Yummy!

Here’s some tips for a successful bake sale:

  • Set up a table in your front yard, at a park, or during a local event to display your goodies.
  • Use colorful plates, labels, and trays to make each treat look extra tempting.
  • Add a sign with prices – you can charge by the piece or offer batch deals for a bigger profit.

People love homemade sweets, so try looking up some fun recipes online to make your bake sale unique. Who can resist a yummy cupcake or a gooey brownie?

If you offer a mix of flavors, you’ll have something for everyone.

However, it’s important to remember that people can have food allergies. Food safety is key, so be sure to follow basic guidelines and label any allergens like nuts or dairy in your products. This way, everyone can enjoy your treats safely.

You could even add special deals like “Buy 2, Get 1 Free” to draw in more customers. People love a good bargain – especially when it comes to sweets!

I know I do! (guilty as charged)

With a bake sale, you get to bake, earn money, and make great memories. So grab your apron, get creative with your treats, and start selling your way to sweet success!

7. Make and Sell Digital Art or Stickers

Photo of Woman Writing on Tablet Computer While Using Laptop
Earning Potential: Medium ($3-$5 per design, more for bundles)
Difficulty: Medium (requires creativity and basic design skills)
Time Needed: Medium (time to create designs, depends on volume)

Making and selling digital art or stickers is easier than you might think, and it’s a great way to turn your creativity into cash!

You don’t even need fancy software – tools like Canva make designing simple and fun, using drag-and-drop features that are easy to learn.

Sort of like Paint, but elevated. So you have a bunch of tools to help and enhance your creative process.

Start by creating unique designs that stand out. You could make cute animals, funny quotes, or colorful patterns. With Canva, you can choose from tons of colors, shapes, and fonts to make each design your own.

If you’d rather keep things digital, you can sell your designs as downloads on websites like Etsy. This way, people pay to download and print your stickers themselves, meaning you earn money each time someone buys a design!

If you want to sell printed stickers, try a print-on-demand service like Redbubble or Zazzle. Just upload your designs, and they’ll handle the printing and shipping for you.

To get the word out, share your art on social media. People love supporting young artists, and your unique designs will catch their attention.

Social media is key to being seen nowadays. Post your creative process on TikTok or Instagram.

TikTok is still the easiest platform to get views even if you have 0 followers. Ask your parents to help edit your videos and you’re good to go.

Making and selling digital art or stickers is a fun, easy way to earn money and share your creativity with the world!

8. Provide Cleaning Services (Like Cars or Bicycles)

Person in glove washing glass partition in modern bathroom
Earning Potential: Medium ($10-$20 per job)
Difficulty: Medium (some physical effort and tools required)
Time Needed: Medium (around 30-60 minutes per job)

Providing cleaning services is a great way to make money, especially when spring arrives and everyone’s ready for the dreaded “Spring Cleaning.”

You can offer to help neighbors, friends, and family with jobs like washing cars, cleaning bicycles, or even simple home tasks like dusting and organizing.

Start by listing the types of cleaning you’re willing to do.

Washing cars and bikes can be a big help, and it’s easy to do with just a bucket, sponge, and some soap. You can also offer indoor services like decluttering, dusting, or cleaning windows.

Some cleaning tasks that are always in demand:

  • Car cleaning and polishing
  • Cleaning bicycle frames, wheels and handlebars
  • Cleaning windows
  • Sweeping and washing patios or driveways
  • Declutter and organise garages or basements

This is a chance to learn about hard work and commitment. Cleaning may seem simple, but doing it well takes effort. People will appreciate your help, and you’ll feel good seeing the results of your work.

Besides, this may be a good opportunity to help someone in need. Perhaps, you have someone in your neighbourhood who can’t clean well due to health or other complications.

Helping out would be a nice gesture. You may also consider doing it free of charge.

That might help spread the word across and you’d get more clients. People appreciate kindness as it makes them feel like better people too. Sort of like a boomerang effect.

“If I pay for a person who did a good deed – I am a nice person too!”

Might be a bit of a cheap and simplified way to put it but it’s true and can help you and your business.

Decide on prices for each job and let people know what you’re offering. You could even make flyers or ask your parents to help spread the word in the neighborhood.

The money you earn can be saved, spent wisely, or even invested in future projects you dream about. With a little work, you’ll see how rewarding it feels to earn and make a difference at the same time.

9. Run Errands (With Parent Supervision)

Person in glove washing glass partition in modern bathroom
Earning Potential: Low ($5-$10 per errand)
Difficulty: Easy (simple tasks like delivering items, groceries)
Time Needed: Low (typically quick tasks around the neighborhood)

Running errands is an easy way to earn some extra money while helping out neighbors, friends, or family.

With a parent’s supervision, you can offer to do small, simple tasks that make a big difference for busy people.

Start by thinking about the types of errands you can help with:

  • Picking up groceries
  • Delivering packages
  • Walking dogs

All the above are great options. These small jobs save time for others, and they’ll appreciate your help.

Make sure to talk with your parent about each task, especially if it involves going to a store or handling money. Working together makes the errands safe and more fun, and you’ll learn responsibility along the way.

You can set prices for each type of errand or charge based on the time it takes. Let people know you’re available to help, either by making flyers or simply asking around.

Running errands with your parent’s help is a fantastic way to learn responsibility, make money, and help your community. Plus, it’s a great experience that can lead to even more opportunities to earn in the future.

10. Create Simple Websites or Blogs

Two Imac's With Keyboard and Phones on Desk
Earning Potential: High ($50-$100 per website)
Difficulty: Hard (requires design and basic coding skills)
Time Needed: High (time-intensive to set up and customize)

Creating simple websites or blogs is a fantastic way to make money if you’re tech-savvy and love working with computers.

Many small businesses and individuals need help setting up a basic website, and you can offer just what they’re looking for.

If you know some basic coding or web design tools, like WordPress or Wix, you can create websites without needing to be an advanced programmer.

In fact, this blog website was made using WordPress!

So knowing this trade can open more doors for you in the future like blogging or building your own e-commerce shops.

Start by practicing with your own website or blog to get the hang of it. Show off your skills by creating a small portfolio to share with potential clients.

Finding clients can be as simple as talking to local businesses, family friends, or even teachers who might need a website.

You can also offer to build blogs for people who want a space to share their hobbies or interests online.

If you have skills in graphic design or video editing, you can add these services to your website offerings. Simple logo designs or a video introduction can make a website look even better and give you an extra way to earn money.

Another idea is to teach other kids or beginners how to create their own websites. Many parents want their kids to learn these skills, and you can offer simple, fun lessons on the basics of web design.

With a bit of creativity and a few skills, creating websites or blogs can turn into a steady way to make money while you build valuable digital experience!

11. Walk Dogs or Other Pets

Dogs, Poodles, Toy poodles, dog walking
Earning Potential: Medium ($5-$15 per walk, depending on duration)
Difficulty: Medium (requires responsibility and love for animals)
Time Needed: Medium (usually 30 minutes to an hour per walk)

If you love animals, walking dogs or pet-sitting is an awesome way to make money while spending time with cute, furry friends.

You can offer to walk dogs, feed cats, or even play with small pets like hamsters or rabbits when their owners are busy.

Start by letting neighbors, family, and friends know you’re available for pet care.

You can make colorful flyers, post on social media with a parent’s help, or ask for referrals. People are always looking for trusted, animal-loving helpers to keep their pets happy!

Dog walking is especially popular because many people don’t have time to give their dogs enough exercise.

Plus, it’s a fun way to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. You can charge by the walk or by the hour, depending on what works best for you and your clients.

If you’re up for more responsibility, consider offering pet-sitting services too. You can visit homes to feed pets, play with them, or even stay overnight if needed, with your parent’s permission. Pet-sitting usually pays more, since it involves extra time and care.

To make this a real business, think about creating a weekly schedule, so people know when you’re available. This shows you’re organized and reliable, which is exactly what pet owners want.

Pet care is a fun and rewarding way to make money, learn responsibility, and build a small business—all while spending time with adorable animals.

12. Do Chores Around the House

Laundry, Towels, Linen
Earning Potential: Low ($1-$5 per chore, depending on task)
Difficulty: Easy (household tasks like vacuuming, washing dishes)
Time Needed: Low (tasks typically take 15-30 minutes)

Doing chores around the house is one of the easiest ways to make money while helping out at home. By taking on extra tasks, you can earn pocket money while giving your family a hand with everyday jobs.

Talk to your parents about what chores you could do for a bit of extra cash.

Many families don’t pay for basic tasks like keeping your room clean or picking up after yourself, but they may offer pocket money for additional chores.

Here are some common chores you can get paid for:

  • Washing up or loading the dishwasher
  • Folding laundry (top most dreaded task for adults, speaking from experience!)
  • Vacuuming and sweeping
  • Watering plants
  • Mowing the lawn or pulling weeds
  • Washing the car
  • Dusting shelves and surfaces
  • Clearing the table and helping with dinner prep
  • Cleaning bathrooms

To make even more, see if any neighbors or elderly family friends need help with chores. Many people appreciate having an extra pair of hands for small jobs around the house, and they’ll be glad to support a young, hardworking helper.

Set a fair price for each chore based on how much time and effort it takes. Don’t expect too much for smaller tasks, but you can charge a bit more for bigger jobs like washing the car or cleaning up the yard.

Doing chores around the house is a great way to learn responsibility, make money, and gain life skills that’ll be helpful in the future. Plus, each task brings you closer to your savings goals!

13. Use Swagbucks to Earn Rewards Online

Telework, Technology, Laptop, make money online
Earning Potential: Low ($1-$5 per week; not a high-income option)
Difficulty: Easy (simple tasks like surveys, watching videos)
Time Needed: Low (can do in small chunks throughout the day)

Swagbucks is an easy way to make money online by doing fun tasks, perfect for teenagers looking for ways to earn from home.

On Swagbucks, you earn points called SB, which you can exchange for cash or gift cards once you’ve built up enough points.

There are lots of ways to earn SB on Swagbucks:

  • answer surveys
  • watch videos
  • play games
  • search the internet
  • download new apps

Each task gives you SB, so the more you do, the more you can earn.

You need to be at least 13 years old to sign up, so it’s a great option for teens. It’s not a way to make tons of money, but it’s an easy and fun way to make a bit of extra cash without needing any special equipment.

Swagbucks offers various payment options, including gift cards for places like Amazon, iTunes, and Steam. This makes it a great way to save up for your hobbies, whether you’re into gaming, music, or shopping online.

If you enjoy Swagbucks, there are other sites you can check out, too.

Platforms like InboxDollars, Mistplay, and PlaytestCloud also reward users for simple activities like surveys, gaming, and app testing. Each site has its own unique ways to earn, so explore a few to find the ones you enjoy the most!

14. Sell Gigs on Fiverr or Upwork

Photo of Woman Taking Notes
Earning Potential: High (starts at $5 per gig; can grow to $50+ per project with experience)
Difficulty: Hard (requires specialized skills like design, writing, or editing)
Time Needed: High (time depends on gig complexity and volume)

Selling gigs on Fiverr is a fantastic way to make money online, especially if you have a skill you want to share.

Fiverr is a platform where people buy small services starting at $5, which is where the name comes from, and you can make even more by offering premium services or bundles.

The great thing about Fiverr is that you only need to be 13 to sign up.

Plus, you don’t have to worry about age because most users have anonymous usernames and profile pictures. This means people focus on your work, not your age.

To get started, think about what you enjoy or what you’re good at.

If you like art, offer gigs for creating social media graphics, YouTube thumbnails, or custom illustrations. Canva is a great tool for beginners and makes designing easy without expensive software.

Some other gig ideas include editing photos, making logos, recording voiceovers, or helping people with social media. You could even offer unique services, like making memes or fun messages, which you’ll find in Fiverr’s “Lifestyle” section.

While these types of gigs may be more competitive, they’re a fun way to start and gain experience.

If you’re serious about freelancing, consider learning a high-demand skill like Photoshop or coding.

Sites like Codecademy offer free courses, and building these skills can help you stand out on Fiverr and earn higher rates. Not only can this make you more money now, but it can also help with future job opportunities.

Other platforms like Upwork, Etsy, and even local social media pages are also great places to promote your services.

Getting started with Fiverr can teach you how to manage clients, deliver quality work, and earn money doing something you’re good at – all while building skills you can use in the future.

15. Buy in Bulk and Sell for Profit

Composition of calculator with paper money and notebook with pen
Earning Potential: Medium ($1-$2 profit per item; potential for $20-$30)
Difficulty: Medium (requires budgeting and pricing)
Time Needed: Medium (time for setup and selling)

Flipping bulk items like candy bars is a clever way to make money while learning about how businesses earn profits.

This method is less physically demanding than some other jobs, but it’s a great mental challenge that teaches you about pricing, demand, and managing a small business.

The process is simple:

  • Step 1: Start by buying items in bulk, like a big pack of candy bars or snack-sized bags of chips from stores like Amazon or wholesale clubs
  • Step 2: Calculate the cost of each item by dividing the total cost by the number of items in the pack. This helps you understand how much you need to charge to make a profit
  • Step 3: Sell the item one by one to your classmates, friends or neighbours

For example, if each candy bar costs you $1, you could sell it for $2 or $3 to make a profit on each one. Try selling them to classmates, friends, or family. Just be sure to check with your school’s rules before selling items at school.

Besides candy, there are lots of items that work well for this type of business.

You could flip school supplies like pens or notebooks, small toys, or even seasonal items like Halloween treats or holiday stickers. Buying things people want, especially when it’s convenient for them to buy from you, is a key part of this strategy.

Supply and demand are the two key aspects to be successful at this type of venture!

An example of this would be selling water bottles for cars held up in a traffic jam on a hot summer day.

Normally, such a trivial item would not sell well, but if you’re tired, held up and exhausted from heat you wouldn’t mind paying even $5 for a fresh bottle of water!

Setting prices that cover your costs and make a profit is an excellent way to practice budgeting and gain business skills. With this approach, you’ll learn a lot about how companies profit, setting you up with business skills from a young age.

16. Mow Lawns or Shovel Sidewalks

Lawn mower, Grass, Cutting
Earning Potential: High ($10-$20 per lawn or driveway, more for larger areas)
Difficulty: Medium (physical effort required)
Time Needed: Medium (depends on lawn/driveway size; around 30-60 minutes per job)

Mowing lawns or shoveling sidewalks is a great way to make money while helping out your neighbors! It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.

During the warmer months, offer to mow lawns for people in your neighborhood.

Many folks appreciate not having to do this chore themselves, and they’re happy to pay for your help.

In the winter, you can shovel snow from driveways and sidewalks. This helps keep everyone safe and makes getting around much easier after a snowfall.

To find jobs, you can ask around your neighborhood or get permission to post on local social networking apps like Nextdoor.

Just be sure to check with your parents first.

Another great option for older teens is to check out Gigwalk, an app where you can find local gigs, including tasks like yard work, right from your phone.

Remember to dress appropriately for the weather and wear safety gear like gloves and sturdy shoes. Staying safe while you work is super important!

It will also demonstrate professionalism and inspire trust in your clients. They’ll know you’re the right person for the job.

Offering services like lawn mowing or snow shoveling teaches you responsibility and helps you learn how to manage your own small business. Plus, your neighbors will be grateful for your hard work.

So grab that lawn mower or shovel (with your parents’ permission) and start making some extra cash while keeping your neighborhood looking great!

17. Car Wash for Neighbors

Four Children Washing Silver Toyota Prius
Earning Potential: Medium ($10-$15 per wash, with extra for vacuuming)
Difficulty: Medium (requires attention to detail and some equipment)
Time Needed: Medium (usually around 30 minutes per wash)

Washing cars for neighbors is a fantastic way to make cash while having a little fun outdoors.

All you need is a bucket, sponge, soap, and some towels – grab them from the dollar store to keep costs low – and you’re ready to get to work!

Offer a basic wash, or throw in extras like vacuuming and polishing for an added fee.

Trust me, there are plenty of cars out there with hidden crumbs and dust that families would love to see gone. Plus, vacuums are easy to carry around, making it simple to add an interior clean-up to your service.

Set your prices based on the car’s size and condition, with options for a quick wash or a full interior detail. By washing just 10-20 cars, you could easily make around $200!

To find customers, make flyers, ask around your neighborhood, or post on local apps like Nextdoor (with your parent’s permission). Happy customers are bound to share your service with friends and family, which could bring in even more work.

Take your time and pay attention to detail – a spotless car means a satisfied customer who’ll keep coming back. Car washing is a quick way to earn cash, build a customer base, and develop a reputation as the go-to car wash in your neighborhood!

18. Tutor Younger Kids Online

Photo Of Woman Tutoring Young Boy
Earning Potential: High ($10-$20 per hour)
Difficulty: Medium (requires knowledge of subject and patience)
Time Needed: High (requires regular scheduling and preparation)

Tutoring younger kids online is an awesome way to earn money if you’re a whiz in a certain school subject or skill!

Not only do you get to help others, but you’re also building skills that will stick with you for life.

If you’re great at math, science, reading, or even music, you can offer tutoring services to younger students. You can teach online through platforms like Preply and Tutor Care from the comfort of home. Plus, who wouldn’t want a flexible job where you set the schedule?

Tutoring is more than just explaining stuff – it’s also a great way to work on patience, communication, and staying organized.

When you create lesson plans, keep track of progress, and work with different students, you’re gaining real-world skills that look great on any resume.

Getting started with tutoring could even involve applying, interviewing, and talking with parents – all valuable experience.

And if you specialize in something unique, like guitar, drawing, or coding, you can offer these as special lessons that really set you apart.

To find students, ask friends and family or post in local online groups (with your parent’s permission, of course). You might be surprised how many people are looking for tutoring help!

Tutoring is a win-win: you earn some cash, build confidence, and help someone else understand something new. It’s a cool way to make a difference, boost your skills, and start a side hustle all at once!

19. Help at the Beach or Fishing Areas

Two Women Cleaning at the Beach
Earning Potential: Low ($5-$10 per hour, varies by task)
Difficulty: Medium (requires physical work and safety awareness)
Time Needed: Medium (depends on available work and timing)

If you live near the beach or fishing areas, why not make some extra cash by helping local fishers?

There’s always plenty of work around the docks, and with some supervision, you can get involved in all kinds of tasks.

Local fishers often need help with small but important jobs, like cleaning lobster pots or untangling fishing nets.

Your smaller hands can be a real advantage for these detail-oriented tasks, and fishers will appreciate the extra help!

Head down to the docks and see if there’s work to do, but make sure you have permission and stay safe by working under the supervision of an adult. You’ll get a unique look at what goes into fishing, learn a lot, and make some extra money at the same time!

Helping out at the beach or docks is a cool, hands-on job that gives you a taste of the fishing world. Plus, it’s a chance to support local fishers and get paid for your efforts.

20. Start a Small Recycling Collection

Glass Bottles in Bag
Earning Potential: Low (5-10 cents per can/bottle)
Difficulty: Easy (just requires collection and sorting)
Time Needed: Low (ongoing collection effort)

Starting a small recycling collection is a classic way to make money while helping the planet!

It’s simple:

  • Step 1: Collect bottles and cans
  • Step 2: Bring them to a recycling center or grocery store
  • Step 3: Earn cash for each one – often 5 cents a piece, depending on your area

This job is perfect if you want a side hustle that doesn’t require tons of equipment or time.

Start by asking family, neighbors, and friends if they have bottles or cans you can collect. You might even put up a small flyer around your neighborhood to let people know about your recycling collection.

The best part?

Not only are you earning money, but you’re also doing something good for the planet. Each bottle or can you recycle keeps our environment cleaner, and when you add it all up, it makes a big difference.

Check online to see if your city offers special recycling programs with bonuses or higher rates, too. Recycling might seem old-school, but it’s a reliable, feel-good way to earn cash and do some good all at once!

FAQ

How can I make $500 as a kid?

You can make $500 as a kid by starting small side hustles like selling crafts or baked goods, offering lawn care or snow shoveling services, or setting up a lemonade stand. Participating in garage sales or helping neighbors with chores are other great options. With dedication and effort, you can achieve your goal quickly.

How can a kid make $300?

A kid can make $300 by doing simple jobs such as walking dogs, babysitting for family or friends, washing cars, or offering tutoring services. Selling old toys, books, or clothes online or at a yard sale is another effective way to earn extra cash.

Can a 12 year old make money?

Yes, a 12-year-old can make money through age-appropriate jobs like babysitting, pet sitting, mowing lawns, or doing household chores for neighbors. They can also sell handmade crafts or run an online store with help from an adult.

How can a kid start making money?

A kid can start making money by identifying their skills or hobbies and turning them into services or products. Popular ideas include pet care, helping with yard work, selling artwork, or offering tech assistance to family members. Make sure to get parental permission for any paid activities.

What job is suitable for a 12 year old?

Suitable jobs for a 12-year-old include babysitting, pet sitting, helping with yard work, or tutoring younger kids in subjects they excel at. They can also assist with family errands, such as grocery shopping or organizing items for sale.

How to get money fast at 13?

A 13-year-old can earn money quickly by offering neighborhood services like lawn mowing, snow shoveling, or cleaning garages. They can also sell unwanted items online or in a yard sale, participate in paid online surveys, or start a small business like making jewelry or crafts.

Can a 10 year old babysit?

Generally, a 10-year-old is considered too young to babysit independently. However, they can assist an older sibling or parent with babysitting duties to gain experience. Babysitting training courses are also recommended to prepare for future opportunities.

Final Thoughts

When you first started reading this, you might have wondered “is it possible to make money as a kid?”

Now, you can confidently say:

YES, it is!

Whether you want to use your creativity, work with your hands, or help out in your neighborhood, there’s an opportunity out there for you.

We’ve shared a variety of ideas (20, to be exact), from simple chores to running your own mini business.

The exciting part?

You get to experiment, learn, and discover what suits you best.

Maybe you’ll create something that sparks your entrepreneurial spirit, or perhaps you’ll find joy in helping others while earning some extra cash.

You’re doing great already by just reading this article. Being so young and interested in such things as making money will set you on a path to success and it’s just a matter of time until you start seeing real results!

Every small success (and mistake) will teach you valuable lessons about responsibility, creativity, and determination – all while having fun!

Remember, not every idea will work for you, and that’s okay. Team up with a parent, sibling, or friend to make it easier and more enjoyable.

Who knows? You might even inspire others around you to start their own journey.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick an idea, dive in, and see where it takes you. Whether it’s earning your first dollar or learning something new, the journey itself is just as rewarding.

Or if you have any unique money-making tips of your own we’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences down in the comments!

Godspeed! 🚀

About the author

Olivija, founder of Build Digital Income and a full-stack developer, began living independently at 18 and quickly realized the importance of mastering money for a good life. Tired of phrases like 'money isn't everything,' she decided to tackle the subject head-on. Now, she's sharing her journey to financial freedom, including the lessons learned and those yet to come.

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