Jobs for Kids

Benefits of Kids Working

From a simple lemonade stand in the front yard to an elaborate home business, jobs for kids can be extremely beneficial. Working helps kids develop their social skills. This, in turn, builds confidence and self esteem. When kids feel a sense of purpose and accomplishment, they are better able to fend off peer pressure.

In addition, working kids are able to practice academics in a real world setting. Business kids usually need to do research, write letters, and make signs. All of these things are practical applications of the reading and writing they learn in school. Math skills are also put to the test with money handling, price determination, supply shopping, and profit calculation.

Special Considerations

One of the most important considerations in choosing a job for a child is time. Clearly, you will want to put limits on a young child's work hours, so that it doesn't interfere with school work, family time, play time, and down time. While homeschoolers can realistically work year-round, children in traditional school settings may do better with summer jobs.

You will also want to gauge your child's readiness for business. While working can complement social and academic skills, too much too soon can lead to burnout. If your child shows no signs of interest in working, waiting a year could make all the difference.

Choosing a Job or Business

When it comes time to choose a job or home business for your child, try to look beyond the obvious. While a lemonade stand just may be the ideal job for your kid, there are other possibilities. Does your child have a special talent or passion? Turn that into a moneymaking industry!

Domestic Jobs for Kids

Sometimes, there's just no need to reinvent the wheel. If your child has an interest in the more traditional business ideas, go ahead and indulge her. After all, these jobs are popular for a reason-- there is a constant demand for skilled and responsible entrepreneurs. Here are a few ideas:

• Babysitting
• Mother's helper
• Polishing silver
• Housecleaning
• Folding laundry
• Selling cookies, lemonade, or other foodstuff

If your child decides to sell homemade food, you will need to check your local food handling laws.

Jobs for Nature Lovers

If your child loves the outdoors, look to the earth for business ideas. With so many dual income households, families frequently outsource yardwork. This is a great opportunity for the enterprising youth. A few business ideas to consider:

• Raking leaves
• Pulling weeds
• Mowing lawns
• Water lawns
• Tending gardens
• Worm farming

Craft Jobs for Kids

Many kids love making things with their hands. If your child demonstrates a real passion and talent for arts and crafts, this could be the ideal business. Most any craft can become a business. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Selling homemade jewelry
• Selling hair ties, headbands, or barrettes
• Making dolls
• Making pillows, blankets, or doll clothes
• Homemade greeting cards
• Tie-dyed shirts
• Framed artwork

Jobs for Animal Lovers

If your child has a way with animals, there are many possible jobs available. For any businesses requiring animal ownership, however, make sure that your child is aware of the responsibilities before you make the commitment. Kids are notorious for neglecting their four-legged friends after the "new" wears off. If you and your child are both comfortable with the responsibilites involved, consider these animal friendly jobs:

• Dog walker
• Pet sitter
• Bunny breeder
• Pooper scooper
• Homemade dog biscuit, dog treat, or pet food business