10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I’ve been a career coach for over twenty years, and if there’s one thing I have actually learned it’s that a one-size-fits-all approach to job browsing does not work. Whether you are a trainee, an early professional, a seasoned job hunter, or a working moms and dad, The Career Counter has customized, tailored resources and templates to help you land the job of your dreams!

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My energetic tween just recently asked me, «Mom, can I work?» Given my 20+ years as a profession coach, I felt obliged to offer an intelligent, knowledgeable reaction. But in reality, I didn’t have a clear answer for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides family tasks? I thought to myself. «Uh, let me do some research study and get back to you on that,» I said while quickly googling the very best jobs for 12-year-olds. By the way, if you’ve got a teenager, have a look at the very best tasks for teenagers.

While I know my daughter is not rather all set to take on a babysitting or family pet sitting job, she certainly will be in a couple years. Considered that truth, I decided to take a seat and research study all about task opportunities for tweens. Are you in a similar boat with your kids? If so, keep reading to discover the very best tasks for 12- year-olds, as well as general info concerning labor laws and ensuring the security and protection of your kids as they launch their first job experience.

Before I dive into the finest gigs for tweens, let me first cover the laws regarding kid labor. If you’re not familiar, I’ll give you the general gist: On the federal level, child labor laws are set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets the minimum age requirements for child work, consisting of limiting the variety of hours kids can work, in addition to designating the types of jobs children can have. Generally, the minimum age for employment is 14, but exceptions exist for tasks like paper shipment, childcare, and farming work, where kids can work from a younger age under certain conditions.

Each state may likewise have its own laws, which can be more stringent than federal laws. In California, for instance, the legal working age is 14 years of ages. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can legally work without a license doing things like lawn mowing, selling arts and crafts, and babysitting, to name simply a couple of. Minors can also work certain farming jobs, if the kid is employed by a moms and dad or legal guardian who manages, operates, or owns the property.

Children over 14, while legally permitted to work lots of jobs, deal with a lot of limitations. However, that’s an entire other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let’s get into the fun stuff. Specifically, here are the finest tasks for 12-year-olds that provide kids a chance to have fun, establish a great ethic, learn more about themselves, and most significantly, stay safe:(need ideas on writing a resume for teens? Check out How to Write a Trainee Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me start by emphasizing that this list is not implied to be in any particular order. With that said, I’m going to start by blogging about childcare. My very own first task as a 12 year old was, yup, you thought it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And luckily for me, he was a simple kid to view. Even much better, my mother was home while I babysat which offered me assurance. It was the best job for my first job!

Babysitting, pet sitting, and even dog walking can be great first tasks for tweens. Besides the apparent benefits of making their own money, employment these jobs permit kids to develop interaction abilities and learn obligation. Also, I have to toss in that it will definitely assist if your child likes kids and animals. If they are not really into playing with kids and they do not like pets, they most likely won’t last really long.

My best guidance as both a mama and a profession coach: encourage your child to do something they like. My daughter, for instance, absolutely likes having fun with more youthful kids and she adores pets. Like, seriously LOVES them. Maybe even more than she likes me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I know she will truly enjoy babysitting and animal sitting. This is not to say that your child can’t do these tasks if they are not natural caretakers. Taking care of kids and employment animals is certainly an ability that can be found out. They just might not enjoy it as much.

Before my daughter takes her very first childcare job, I’m going to make sure a few things are in location. Number one, I desire her to take a child CPR and first help course. The last thing I want is for her to be in an emergency situation while she is babysitting and not understand what to do. Another factor (and the most crucial element) for me is safety. Before she accepts a babysitting task, I will vet the household and guarantee my daughter will remain in a safe environment. In reality, her very first jobs will likely be with households we currently understand and trust.

Your Future Starts Here

# 2: Creative Jobs

If your kid has a specific strength and is self-motivated, you can help them look into ways to generate income doing what I call «imaginative jobs for tweens!»

I recently talked with a mom good friend of mine who said her daughter was earning cash making hand-written thank you notes. She described that her daughter is working for a pal of theirs who owns her own online store selling handmade items. The store owner could not stay up to date with the tailored thank you cards for her consumers. So, she employed a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I simply love this job idea for a lot of reasons. To start with, it plays to this particular kid’s strengths (whom I know well since she likewise occurs to be my daughter’s close buddy). She has naturally stunning handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My good friend told me the best part is her child can compose thank you notes from anywhere and write them at odd hours, whenever she has the time and energy.

Other concepts for tasks like this one: If your child is creative and employment enjoys producing, they could make and offer handmade art or products on Etsy or a similar website (a grownup will require to produce the account). Does your kid love to write? What about submitting pitches or articles to kids’s publications? I can not think of a much better way for a kid to sharpen writing skills and gain self-confidence!

Is your kid more tech savvy than you (do not stress, your trick is safe with me)? What about looking into methods to develop these abilities like developing an app or video game?

Is your child a natural-born entertainer? What about checking out theatre or tv acting or even narrations? These kinds of tasks do not have age constraints and can be a terrific way to permit your kid to hone their acting and singing skills while also earning some cash.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

«Mother’s helper» is another popular job for tweens. This can include aiding with laundry, making treats, babysitting, dog walking, and other family tasks. The great feature of this type of job is that if your kid is on the younger side (like ten or more youthful), they can do the task while being monitored by an adult.

Another perk of this job is that you can quickly discover a mommy or caretaker you currently know who requires aid. Start by sending a message to your instant circle of mommy pals and/or family to see if anyone needs extra assistance. You can also publish in a regional mommy’s group depending upon your convenience level with enabling your child to go into another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would first talk to the household and make certain the environment is safe and safe and secure. I would also likely support my child the very first couple check outs.

# 4: Photographer’s Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your child love taking photos? If so, you might either invest in a digital electronic camera or better yet simply begin with your phone camera. Your kid could start by assisting with taking photos for family and buddies free of charge to develop their abilities along with a photography portfolio. There is always a big requirement for images of unique occasions like birthdays, graduations, and family pictures, to call simply a couple of.

Once your kid becomes more proficient and skilled, they can start charging a minimal cost for their photography while they continue to develop their skills. Your child can even set up a fundamental website eventually to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I wish to start by mentioning that if you kid wishes to make some quick money, this is definitely not the route to go! As a professional blogger, I understand from personal experience it takes time and dedication to build your blog or vlog and eventually produce an earnings stream.

That said, I honestly don’t see a major disadvantage to beginning a vlog or blog site. Kids can sharpen their writing, oral interaction, video editing, and marketing abilities, as well as learn the essentials of ending up being a business owner!

If your kid hasn’t currently, I have to alert you that it’s only a matter of time before they ask the inevitable question that every tween appears to be asking these days: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does require that your child be 13 or have parental grant produce a channel. It will also be up to you as a moms and dad to identify the particular criteria of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

Myself and my husband, for example, decided that if we let our kids start a YouTube channel, we will not permit them to utilize their genuine name or identity. At least while they are under 13 years old. We’ll see what our convenience level will be when they grow older. Every moms and dad clearly has various convenience levels relating to online security for their children.

In regards to how to begin a blog site, all your kid truly needs is choose a blog site topic they are passionate about. That, and ideally something that they want to show the world and/or something they can teach individuals about. There are some fantastic free platforms that allow you to quickly create a blog like Wix or Ionos. I understand that Wix does need users to be at least 13 years of ages to develop a website.

Once your child has an established blog site or vlog, they can likewise market it later their high school or college resume or perhaps in the college application procedure. are always trying to find skills like self-motivation, creativity, drive, and employment aspiration!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping assistant. This can involve things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other chores. If your kiddo is active and likes being outside, this may well be the job for them! My suggestion is to make a leaflet and go around to your next-door neighbors with your kid, to see if anyone might need some landscaping assistance. As they age and become more responsible, your child can branch off and expand their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Of course, I have to mention the lemonade stand! I don’t understand that I would consider this as an actual «task» as much as a way to make periodic cash during the summer. But this is a fantastic first task for a younger kiddo who is feeling motivated to make a little cash and test out their sales and entrepreneurial skills!

# 8: Help in Family Business

Family business. If you are the sole owner of a dining establishment or other type of family organization, your 12-year-old child can operate in numerous capacities as long as they aren’t thought about harmful or hazardous. You also require to make sure to adhere to your state’s child labor laws concerning the number of hours and times of days that you child can lawfully work.

That said, this can be an excellent first work experience for a kid. Learning more about the household company first-hand will develop self-confidence, work ethic, and will likewise enable your kid to discover about themselves and their strengths and interests concerning the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant caretaker. This task is exceptional for kids who have an interest in and who like to discover gardening and plants. Watering plants for next-door neighbors on holiday is also a terrific method to earn earnings while discovering about the basics of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal job. Rounding out my top ten jobs for 12-year-olds are seasonal tasks. These tasks can consist of wrapping presents throughout the vacations and even helping out with party preparation. If there’s one thing that I understand most moms would like is a holiday assistant and even a birthday party assistant. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while definitely terrific, can likewise be tiring for parents. Between getting presents, covering presents, embellishing your home, and all the other little stuff, it’s a lot. Your child, depending upon their interests and strengths, could use their services to friends and neighbors throughout the holiday season.

In Conclusion

As you can see, these ten tasks for 12-year-olds use fantastic chances to explore their interests, develop confidence, and cultivate a strong work principles. Encouraging your child to attempt a job at this young age can be an important steppingstone towards their future success.

– What are some popular jobs for 12 year olds?

The most popular tasks for 12 years of age include babysitting, family pet sitting, backyard work, pet walking, and mom’s assistant.

While 12 years of age are not legally enabled to work in more traditional functions like those at quick food dining establishments, they can work in a personal home setting doing the above discussed tasks.

– Are there any restrictions or constraints on jobs for 12 year olds?

Yes, there are some constraints and limitations on jobs for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets standards for the kinds of tasks and variety of hours that young employees can carry out. For instance, 12 year olds usually can not work in dangerous occupations or during school hours. It is necessary to examine with your local and state laws, along with obtain any needed authorizations or consents.

– How can 12 years of age discover job chances?

Here are a few methods for 12 years of age to discover task opportunities:
– Ask friends and family: Let your friends and family understand that you’re trying to find work. They might have connections or know somebody who requires aid with chores.
– Local services: Visit regional stores, dining establishments, or neighborhood centers and inquire if they have any part-time job openings for employment young workers.
– Online platforms: Some websites and apps particularly cater to linking young employees with task opportunities. Try to find trusted platforms that comply with labor laws and standards.

Remember to always prioritize your security and well-being when thinking about task chances, and talk to your parents or guardians before pursuing any employment.

Lee Cristina Beaser

MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer).
Lee brings over twenty years of competence in assisting individuals towards profession success. During her tenure at San Jose State University, she assisted countless students compose engaging resumes to land their first tasks and internships. More recently, Lee founded The Career Counter, a platform committed to providing task hunters with tools and services tailored to their special fields and career goals.

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– Hermione Eldridge

7 days ago Reply

I am 12 years I have constantly had a great deal of love for animals and I was looking to have a summer task so I was thinking I could be a dogsitter likewise I am looking for a task near to me 6 days ago Reply

Hello Hermione!

Beat way to get a job is through word of mouth (tell friends and family you are looking for canine sitting jobs). Make some leaflets and put them up around your area. Be persistent! The first job may be hard to discover, however if you do a great task you will get referrals.

Best of luck to you!

Kayla Thomas

I was wondering how lots of jobs I can do cause I child sit chickens totally free and I have a crochet club however i haven’t done is just recently, so I was considering babysitting but I am not sure about it.

– Lee Beaser

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for reaching out:-RRB-. Seems like you enjoy animals. You could try to make some earnings by offering pet-sitting services (you already have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can use your current company as a reference to get you more tasks). Keep doing the crochet club! Sounds like a wonderful hobby. You never ever know … ultimately pastimes can turn into earnings as well.

Susy

Hello, do you think I can operate at a library I truly like books and I can offer great advice for books and I feel like even kid libraries would be good. What do you think?

3 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I love that you have discovered something you love and you wish to try to get a task included with books. First thing I would suggest doing is asking friends and family if anyone has connections to any libraries or bookstores in your location. You can likewise visit your public library and inquire about jobs. There might be an age requirement. If there is and employment you are not old enough for a task, you can inquire about offering. This is an excellent method to discover operating in a library. When you do get old enough, you’ll be prepared for a paying job!

Jayla Lancaster

Can I babysit I’m 12 years old

4 weeks ago Reply

Hello Jayla! Yes you can babysit if you are 12 years of ages. That’s really an excellent age to begin doing this kind of task. Start by getting in touch with friends and family and letting them understand you are interested in a babysitting job. Once you begin acquirings ome experience sitting for people you know, they will tell other individuals they understand about how amazing you are and you’ll get referrals!:-RRB-:-RRB- Elena Victoria Hey
Mrs. Beaser

How can I get task

? I have experience in childcare, looking after a dog, and I might most likely tutor someone, but my older sibling always gets those jobs and she will not let me have one; also I am sure people would rather have a 16-year-old v. a 12-year-old. Do you have any suggestions?

Hello terrific question thank you for reaching out! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you do not believe in your capabilities nobody else will either (there are great deals of 12-year-olds who are more accountable than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about inspecting to see if your parents or caretakers have any good friends with younger kids or family pets? If a household already knows you and understands your moms and dads, there is already some trust there and they will be most likely to desire to hire you. You could also make some flyers marketing your services and stroll around your street (with a moms and dad or guardian) and ask if anybody needs aid strolling their pet. Start with individuals you already know. After they hire you and you do an aamzing job, you can utilize these people as references for other tasks.

Don’t give up! Keep attempting and you will get an excellent job quickly!

Oakleigh

Do you think assisting my mother in her hair salon would be alright? If not I might pick up babysitting. I’ve got experience, specifically with 5 younger brother or sisters.

2 months ago Reply

Hello and thank you for your question! I believe helping in your mama’s hair beauty salon would be a terrific first job. However, you and your mom need to examine with the labor laws in your state to ensure you are lawfully allowed to work there. Many states permit kids to work in the family business, but there are restrictions (like number of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, employment and so on).

Babysitting is constantly an excellent option too. With five more youthful siblings, I wager you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my first time however considering that I already pet my pets, I believe I might be a family pet caretaker, am just readily available in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I desire I might animal sit a dog cause I like pets thanks.

Since you already have dogs you can definitely use that experience to get a task as a pet dog walker. Start by asking your household, pals, and neighbors (i.e. people who already understand you). After you get some experience, you can use them as references to get more jobs. All the best!

Graeson

Can I do lawn work cuss I’m 12

3 months ago Reply

Hi Graeson! Yes you can do backyard work. Start by providing your services to neightbors and individuals you understand. Once they employ you and trust you, they will likely inform their friends and you can get more service.

Ellie

Can I do the sitter club since I’m 12

– Lee Beaser

4 months ago Reply

Hello Ellie, childcare is a fantastic task for 12-year olds! I’m not exactly sure which babysitter club you are describing, however you can absolutely babysit at 12!

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