Good Ideas for Kid's Summer Jobs
Summer break means months of playing and exploring for many youngsters, but others feel the call of the entrepreneurial spirit. A summer job gives kids a chance to earn spending money and gain a greater sense of responsibility. Since laws restrict working in established businesses, kids under the legal working age need a little creativity to establish their own summer jobs.
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Errand Runner
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The list of chores never seems to end. Kids can handle a variety of chores around the house. Encourage your child to turn this ability into a summer job by marketing her household services to the neighbors. The type of tasks depends on your child's age and skill level. Ideas include yard work, babysitting, washing cars and other cleaning tasks. Help your child set prices for each different type of chore she is willing to handle. Spread the word to neighbors and local friends to get the service offerings off the ground.
Animal Care
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An animal-loving child has the option of using that interest to create his own summer job. Many basic pet care chores are an option for kids to make money. A dog-walking business is one option. He might also offer dog grooming services if he is old enough and is comfortable washing and brushing dogs. Pet sitting for neighbors during the day while they are at work is also an idea for kids.
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Handmade Items
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A child who enjoys artistic activities might use that hobby as the basis for a summer job. She can sell her handmade items to neighbors and friends for a profit. Going door-to-door is one option, or she might set up a stand, similar to a lemonade stand, for selling her items. Ideas include jewelry, clay sculptures and painted pictures, but her own personal interests and talents play a role in the items she creates.
Neighbor Vacation Helper
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Summer is prime time for family vacations, which means many of your neighbors will likely be gone at various times. While they are out of town, they will likely need jobs done to make the home look lived in so burglars won't target it. This might include collecting the newspapers, mowing, watering the garden and caring for pets. For neighbors you don't know as well, stick with jobs that don't require going inside the home.
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References
- Photo Credit smiling asian girl with her pet dog image by Gina Smith from Fotolia.com