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Learn fun and practical ways to help your kids make money in this guide. Teach financial literacy while they enjoy earning extra cash!
by Atomic Mommy Editors
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For most kids, earning money seems like an easy task and something fun to do when they’re bored, and getting started with a side hustle is easy. All it takes are some connections, a few calls to friends and neighbors, and voila! Your kid will have a cash-paying gig in no time!
Whether it’s babysitting, tutoring other kids, or something as simple as selling lemonade at a t-ball game, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive list of fun ways to help your kids make money!
How a Side-Hustle Teaches Kids Financial Literacy
Helping kids start money-making side hustles is an excellent way to teach them important financial literacy skills that they can carry with them into adulthood. By encouraging children to earn their own money through entrepreneurial endeavors, parents can instill valuable lessons about responsibility, hard work, and money management. Here are some key benefits and skills that these side hustles can teach:
- Understanding the value of money: By earning money themselves, children gain a firsthand understanding of the effort and time required to make money, fostering a sense of appreciation for the value of hard work.
- Budgeting and saving: Managing the earnings from their side hustles can teach kids the importance of budgeting and saving. They learn to set aside a portion of their earnings for future expenses or savings goals.
- Entrepreneurial mindset: Engaging in side hustles encourages children to think creatively and problem solve, as they navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with running their own business.
- Customer service and communication skills: Interacting with customers through side hustles such as tutoring or pet sitting helps children develop valuable customer service and communication skills, enhancing their ability to interact effectively with others.
- Responsibility and time management: Juggling school, extracurricular activities, and side hustles requires children to develop strong organizational skills and manage their time effectively, teaching them valuable life skills.
Overall, helping children start money-making side hustles offers a practical and hands-on way to instill financial literacy skills, preparing them for a future of financial independence and success.
Fun Ways Your Kids Can Make Money
1. Shoveling Snow
Live in an area with long winters or brutal snowstorms? It’s time to teach your kid how to use a shovel! Offer your neighbors a discounted shoveling service from your kids. Tell them that they’ll clear driveways and sidewalks after a snowstorm and be sure to set the fee ahead of schedule, this way the adults will know what to pay and the kids can focus on doing the work. Be sure to collect the income with your child present so they understand the value of hard work for pay.
2. Mowing Lawns
You better believe if your neighbors have lawns, then they could use a break from mowing them! Give your kids a few lessons on how to mow your home’s lawn and then set them up with friends and neighbors who need a good service at an affordable rate. Don’t forget to set a good rate, one that is lower than the competition, and watch your kids’ lucrative business come to life.
3. Babysitting
Turn your child’s natural talent for taking care of younger siblings into a profitable venture for them. Be sure to help them get their CPR and first aid certifications to assure parents of your child’s responsible nature. Once they have these certifications, offer your child’s trusted babysitting services to parents in your community.
4. Tutoring
Does your kid excel in a particular subject at school? Have them share their knowledge to help peers succeed by offering tutoring services. The best way to start this is to ask your child’s guidance counselor if there are any children who could benefit from being tutored. You should also put up flyers in the school and ask friends and family if they know anyone who needs tutoring. This will help get your child set up with a good amount of clients.
5. DIY Crafts and Artwork
Is your child a budding artist or a craft enthusiast? Help them monetize their talent by allowing them to create and sell their own handmade crafts or artwork. You can set up an online store for them using a platform like Etsy or help them create a dedicated website to showcase unique creations. Be sure to help them take high-quality photos and write engaging descriptions for each item.
6. Pet Sitting
Do your kids handle your pets really well? Are they an animal lover with a passion for furry friends? If so, then they can offer pet sitting services to pet owners in your community. Help spread the word by helping them design and distribute colorful flyers at pet stores or veterinary clinics. Hand them out at supermarkets and coffee shops. On the flyers, be sure to mention any special skills like dog training or grooming skills they have to stand out from the competition.
7. Social Media Assistance for Small Businesses
It’s likely that your kids are tech-savvy and may even have a knack for social media. If they do, then those skills are highly sought after, especially by small businesses who are not on social media. To start, call a few local businesses and ask if they’re on social media. Have your kid listen in on your calls. When a small business mentions that they don’t and would like to be, offer them the service via your child’s tech expertise. Tell them how good your kid is at it and try to set a meeting for your child to show off their social media skills. You’d be surprised how many businesses can’t afford a social media manager, and if you help your child set their rate to an affordable one, they could end up with a first client.
8. Good Ol’ Lemonade Stand
Setting up a lemonade stand at local games is not only a fun and refreshing way for kids to beat the summer heat, but it can also be a great opportunity to earn some extra cash. With a well-placed lemonade stand, young entrepreneurs can attract thirsty customers who are looking for a tasty beverage to enjoy while watching the games. The bustling atmosphere of the games provides a steady stream of potential customers, increasing the chances of making sales. However, it’s important to note that before embarking on this entrepreneurial venture, parents should ensure they have the necessary permits and permissions required by their town or city this way your kids can operate a lemonade stand safely and legally.
Wrapping Up
Financial literacy starts at home, and parents play a crucial role in nurturing their children’s understanding of money and financial skills. One effective way to accomplish this is by helping kids make money through a side-hustle. Not only does this provide an opportunity for children to have fun and earn extra cash, but it also teaches them valuable financial lessons. By engaging in activities such as shoveling snow, mowing lawns, babysitting, tutoring, creating crafts, or assisting small businesses with social media, children learn the importance of hard work, responsibility, and managing finances. As parents guide and support their kids in these endeavors, they set them on a path towards financial empowerment and a solid foundation for their future.
Disclaimer: While these ideas are suitable for kids to make money, it’s essential to consider your local laws and regulations regarding age restrictions and permissions for working. Consult with local officials and schools for guidance on the matter. Above all else, always prioritize yours and your child’s personal safety and the safety of others when pursuing any entrepreneurial activities.
