kids and money

23 Ways to Make Money as a Kid (And Learn Budgeting & Saving)

Money SmartsYouth & MoneyJuly 3, 2023

Learning the value of money, saving, and earning at a young age has never been easier in the internet age. Ways to earn money as a kid include pet sitting, running a lemonade stand, tutoring, mowing lawns, and even selling crafts on sites like Etsy. Below are various creative and fun ways for children of all ages to earn money. Always ensure you have permission and guidance from an adult before starting a new money-making venture.

Ways to Make Money as a Young Kid

  1. Lemonade Stand

The classic lemonade stand is a fun way to teach kids about entrepreneurship. Kids can learn about cost, profit, and customer service with a simple setup.

  1. Bake Sale

Children can bake and sell cookies, cakes, or cupcakes. This helps them earn money and learn the basics of baking.

  1. Pet Sitting

Kids love animals, and many pet owners need someone to watch their pets. This is an excellent way to teach responsibility and care.

  1. Gardening Services

Young kids can assist with basic gardening chores like weeding or watering plants.

  1. Selling Arts and Crafts

Whether it's handmade jewelry, painting, or any form of art, kids can sell their crafts to family, friends, or even online.

Ways to Make Money as a Teenager

  1. Babysitting

Babysitting is a great way for teenagers to earn money. This job also helps in learning responsibility and caring for others.

  1. Tutoring

If a teenager excels in a particular subject, they can offer tutoring services to younger students.

  1. Car Wash Services

Teens can offer to wash cars in their neighborhood. It's an excellent way to make money while enjoying the outdoors.

  1. Dog Walking

Dog walking is a fun and active way for teens to earn money.

  1. Part-time Retail Job

Teenagers can work in local stores or food outlets. This provides a regular income and teaches them the value of hard work.

How to Make Money Doing Chores

  1. Cleaning Houses

Kids can offer to clean houses in their neighborhood. This might include dusting, sweeping, or washing dishes.

  1. Mowing Lawns

With the proper equipment and safety measures, mowing lawns can be a profitable task for kids.

  1. Washing Windows

Windows get dirty often, and many homeowners would gladly pay someone to keep them clean.

  1. Doing Laundry

Doing laundry for neighbors can also bring in a good amount of money.

  1. Taking Out Trash

Helping neighbors take out their trash is another way to earn money by doing chores.

How to Make Money in Your Neighborhood as a Kid

  1. Garage Sale

Hosting a garage sale is a great way to declutter and earn money. Kids can sell toys, clothes, or books they no longer need.

  1. Flower Planting

Kids with a green thumb can plant flowers or create small gardens for neighbors.

  1. Snow Shoveling

In winter, snow shoveling can be a lucrative job.

  1. Painting Fences

With the right skill and equipment, kids can offer to paint fences in their neighborhood.

  1. Setting Up Christmas Decorations

During the holiday season, kids can offer to help set up Christmas decorations.

How Kids Make Money Online

  1. Selling Handmade Items Online

Etsy is a great platform where kids can sell their handmade items. Be sure to get parental guidance first!

  1. Online Surveys

Several websites pay users to take surveys. It's an easy and flexible way for kids to earn money online, with the help of a trusted adult.

  1. Starting a YouTube Channel

With parental guidance, kids can start a YouTube channel around a hobby or topic they love. They can earn money through ad revenue and sponsorships.

Tips for Earning Money as a Kid

When it comes to earning money as a kid, the possibilities are endless. The key is to be creative, proactive and choose something you enjoy. Whether running a traditional lemonade stand, babysitting, offering your services in your neighborhood, or using online platforms, you can find a way to make money while gaining valuable skills.

Always ensure you have permission and guidance from an adult when embarking on any money-making venture, especially when using online platforms. Remember, the goal is not just to earn money, but also to learn about responsibility, entrepreneurship, and the value of hard work.

Understanding Budgeting as a Kid

Learning about budgeting at a young age is an invaluable life skill. To find fun and engaging ways to get better at budgeting and savings, check out resources like the Money Mammals and Adolescent$ programs.

Once you start earning money, you must understand that not every penny should be spent immediately. Budgeting is all about managing your money to cover your needs first, such as investing in supplies for your small business, and then allocating some of your earnings towards your wants, like buying a new toy or saving for a video game. It's a process of planning where your money goes instead of wondering where it went.

Importance of Saving and Spending Wisely

At the same time, learning to save money is a critical part of budgeting. You can think of a savings account as paying your future self. You might put aside a part of your earnings into a piggy bank or a savings account. This can be used for larger future purchases, unforeseen expenses, or even just saved for the sake of saving. Also, be sure to spend wisely. Consider the difference between wants and needs before making a purchase. For example, a need might be a new pair of shoes if your old ones are worn out, whereas a new video game or toy may be a want. Balancing your savings, needs, and wants is a big part of successful budgeting.

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