Do you have teens at home? We do, too. Most typical jobs (cashiers, clerks, etc.) require more experience and a lot more flexibility than many teens have. And if you’re on the younger end of teens-forget it. So instead of a typical job we found some ways they can earn some extra cash using their skills to help others.
It will open doors to new experiences and allow them to create their own businesses! Of course, the paycheck they’ll be won’t hurt either.
This list of ways teens can make money is only the tip of the iceberg! The possibilities truly are endless.
8 Small Business Ideas For Teens
1. Farmer’s Market:
Farmer’s markets are a great way to earn money. You can work for a stand and be paid hourly or you can look into making your own products to sell. A recent farmer’s market outing we found people who only make sauces, those who serve up homemade guacamole, and someone who made her own scented soaps. It can be a quick paced job when it’s busy, and will provide them with some flexibility for other obligations (and a little fun).
Who will like this job? This is perfect for someone who loves to bake or create.
2. Errands
When people are busy they often need a hand with errands. Everyone from 9-5ers, new moms, and those who travel frequently need a hand now and again. Offer to do them for them! Return Redbox movies, pick up groceries or dry cleaning, schedule package pickups, or pick up prescriptions. There are tons of things people need done and either don’t want to do it themselves or don’t have the time - that’s what makes these perfect to cash in on!
Who will love this job? Teens who can walk/drive to local stores and don’t mind running errands. You’ll also have to be meticulous about keeping receipts.
3. Elderly Care
Many seniors live alone and need help getting things in their home done. Ideas for services you could offer are: cleaning around the house, laundry, mowing the lawn, weeding garden beds, grocery shopping, and even meal prep.
Who will love this job? Those who love their elders or don’t mind hard work will love this gig. You may even get some cool stories from your elderly clients.
4. Dog Walker/Pet Sitter
Whether it’s vacation time or just long hours there are plenty of people in your local neighborhood and area that need pet care services. Many people need their pets walked but don’t have time, and don’t mind putting out a few bucks for someone else to do it. You could offer things such as feeding the dogs or letting them out during the day to go to the bathroom while their owners are at their job. Other pets you might care for include kittens, bunnies, fish, reptiles, and more!
Who will love this job? Teens who love pets!
5. Odd Jobs
Od jobs are those things that sit on adult’s to do lists for months without getting done. These things won’t take you much time but will be a big help to your clients. Some ideas: list items on Craigslist or eBay, clean out the garage or basement, offer your muscle, poop scoop yards, and so much more. The list is truly endless.
Who will love this job? Teens who don’t mind a little hard work and a lot of sweat.
6. Babysitting
There’s always a need for quality childcare or a ‘mother’s helper’. If you’ve never babysit before, see if your local Red Cross or YMCA offers a babysitting course. It’s also a good idea for everyone to get their CPR certification. Start with working while mom and dad are home, and you can work up to staying for short stints or even taking the baby or kids to the park. This job requires a lot of responsibility, but it also pays well. If you follow the parents’ wishes and have fun with the kids you’ll be getting plenty of referrals in no time!
Who will love this job? Teens who love kids will find this to be a perfect fit! It’s not every day you get paid to watch classic Disney movies and color.
7. Sell Arts & Crafts
There are many people that make a living from being crafty and doing what they love. If you’ve got the magic touch and can turn yarn into cute origami creatures or awesome wearables, or if you’re killer at making jewelry - turn it into your job. Whatever your craft talent is, find a project that you love to do and create something awesome. Etsy is a great place to sell your items - if you’re under 18, your parent or guardian will have to maintain the shop for you.
Who will love this job? Teens who eat, sleep, and drink crafts!
8. Offer Help
Are you a computer whiz or talented at the piano? Do you know 4 languages or take high level math classes? Turn your smarts and skills into a gig by offering help. You can offer lessons, computer help, tutoring, and more. Parents with young kids will love the help to help their kids catch up or move ahead or you’ll get a reputation as the person who can help anyone with any computer problem. That can mean some pretty good dough for you.
Who will love this job? Someone who has skills that other people need and is a patient teacher.
My own kids are down a combination of things to earn cash.
The oldest has been charged with being a babysitter to the younger ones on occasion and is working on creating a business buying and reselling items. My daughters (a teen and a tween) have partnered up to offer pet sitting services in our neighborhood. My older daughter is also working on creating a portfolio of art for her own online shop. Meanwhile all three younger kids have a desire to start blogging and using social media to share their creative endeavors.
PHEW! I have a lot of little entrepreneurs on my hands. What can I say, the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. 😉
What jobs do your teens have?
Kelly
