10 Best Jobs For 12-Year-Olds

I’ve been a career coach for over 20 years, and if there’s something I’ve discovered it’s that a one-size-fits-all technique to task searching does not work. Whether you are a student, an early expert, an experienced job candidate, or a working moms and dad, The Career Counter has personalized, customized resources and design templates to assist you land the task of your dreams!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Stay up to date on the most recent profession and home company posts, news, and suggestions

How Can We Help?

Resume Writing

Resume Templates

DIY Resources

Home Organization Planners

You may also like

Career Products Hand Crafted by a Certified Professional Resume Writer

Professional Career Coaches with Decades of Experience

My energetic tween recently asked me, “Mom, can I work?” Given my 20+ years as a profession coach, I felt obliged to offer an intelligent, well-informed action. But in reality, I didn’t have a clear answer for her. Can a ten-year-old do work besides family tasks? I believed to myself. “Uh, let me do some research study and return to you on that,” I said while rapidly googling the finest tasks for 12-year-olds. By the way, if you’ve got a teenager, take a look at the finest jobs for teenagers.

While I know my child is not quite all set to take on a babysitting or animal sitting job, she definitely will remain in a couple years. Considered that truth, I chose to sit down and research study everything about task chances for tweens. Are you in a similar boat with your kids? If so, keep reading to find out about the very best jobs for 12- year-olds, along with general info regarding labor laws and making sure the security and security of your kids as they embark upon their first job experience.

Before I dive into the best gigs for tweens, let me first cover the laws concerning kid labor. If you’re not familiar, I’ll provide you the general essence: On the federal level, kid labor laws are set by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), which sets the minimum age requirements for kid employment, including restricting the number of hours kids can work, in addition to designating the kinds of tasks kids can have. Generally, the minimum age for employment is 14, however exceptions exist for jobs like paper delivery, childcare, and farming work, where children 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 example, the legal working age is 14 years of ages. However, kids under 14 and even under 12 can lawfully work without a permit doing things like yard mowing, selling arts and crafts, and babysitting, to name simply a couple of. Minors can also work certain agricultural tasks, if the child is utilized by a parent or legal guardian who controls, somalibidders.com runs, or owns the home.

Children over 14, while legally allowed to work lots of tasks, face a great deal of restrictions. However, that’s an entire other subject that I’ll likely cover in a future post!

Okay, now let’s enter into the fun stuff. Specifically, here are the best jobs for 12-year-olds that offer kids a chance to have fun, develop a good work ethic, learn more about themselves, and most notably, remain safe:(require pointers on writing a resume for teens? Take a look at How to Write a Student Resume).

# 1: Babysitting

Let me start by emphasizing that this list is not indicated to be in any particular order. With that stated, I’m going to start by discussing childcare. My extremely own very first task as a 12 year old was, yup, you guessed it, babysitting! It was for a kid who lived next door. And luckily for me, he was a simple kid to see. Even much better, my mom was home while I babysat which gave me assurance. It was the perfect task for my very first job!

Babysitting, animal sitting, and even canine walking can be terrific very first jobs for tweens. Besides the obvious advantages of earning their own money, these tasks allow kids to develop interaction skills and discover duty. Also, I have to include that it will definitely help if your child likes kids and pets. If they are not actually into playing with kids and they don’t like pets, they most likely will not last long.

My finest suggestions as both a mama and a career coach: motivate your child to do something they like. My daughter, for example, definitely loves playing with younger kids and she loves pet dogs. Like, seriously LOVES them. Perhaps even more than she enjoys me. But I digress. Anway, that’s how I know she will really take pleasure in babysitting and pet sitting. This is not to say that your kid can’t do these tasks if they are not natural caretakers. Taking care of kids and animals is definitely an ability that can be learned. They just may not enjoy it as much.

Before my daughter takes her very first childcare job, I’m going to ensure a couple of things are in place. Primary, I want her to take a child CPR and first help course. The last thing I desire is for her to be in an emergency scenario while she is babysitting and not understand what to do. Another factor (and the most crucial aspect) for me is security. Before she accepts a babysitting task, I will vet the family and ensure my child will be in a safe environment. In fact, her first jobs will likely be with families we currently know and trust.

# 2: Creative Jobs

If your kid has a specific strength and is self-motivated, you can help them check out methods to make money doing what I call “innovative tasks for tweens!”

I recently talked with a mommy buddy of mine who stated her child was earning money making hand-written thank you notes. She described that her daughter is working for a good friend of theirs who owns her own online shop selling handmade items. The shop owner couldn’t keep up with the individualized thank you cards for her customers. So, she worked with a tween to do it for her. Brilliant!

I just enjoy this job concept for a lot of factors. To start with, it plays to this specific kid’s strengths (whom I understand well since she also occurs to be my daughter’s buddy). She has naturally beautiful handwriting. Also, it’s uber-flexible. My pal informed me the very best part is her daughter can write thank you notes from anywhere and write them at odd hours, whenever she has the time and energy.

Other ideas for jobs like this one: If your child is artistic and enjoys developing, they could make and offer handcrafted art or products on Etsy or a comparable website (a grownup will require to develop the account). Does your kid love to compose? What about sending pitches or short articles to kids’s publications? I can not believe of a much better way for a kid to refine composing skills and acquire confidence!

Is your kid more tech savvy than you (do not fret, your trick is safe with me)? What about looking into ways to establish these skills like establishing an app or computer game?

Is your kid a natural-born entertainer? What about checking out theatre or tv performing or perhaps narrations? These kinds of tasks do not have age restrictions and can be a fantastic way to allow your kid to refine their performing and singing skills while also earning some cash.

# 3: Mother’s Helper

“Mother’s helper” is another popular task for tweens. This can include helping with laundry, making treats, childcare, pet dog walking, and other household tasks. The good feature of this kind of task is that if your child is on the more youthful side (like 10 or younger), they can do the task while being supervised by a grownup.

Another perk of this job is that you can easily discover a mommy or caretaker you currently understand who needs help. Start by sending out a message to your instant circle of mother friends and/or family to see if anyone requires extra help. You can also publish in a local mother’s group depending upon your comfort level with permitting your child to go into another home. For me personally, if I went this route, I would initially speak with the family and make sure the environment is safe and secure. I would also likely accompany my child the very first couple check outs.

# 4: Photographer’s Assistant

Photographer/ Photographer’s Assistant. Does your child love taking pictures? If so, you might either invest in a digital video camera or much better yet just begin with your phone electronic camera. Your kid could begin by helping with taking images for family and friends free of charge to develop their abilities along with a photography portfolio. There is always a huge need for pictures of unique events like birthdays, graduations, and family pictures, to call just a few.

Once your child becomes more experienced and knowledgeable, they can start charging a minimal rate for their photography while they continue to develop their abilities. Your kid can even set up a fundamental website eventually to promote their services.

# 5: Blogger or Vlogger

Blogger or Vlogger. I want to start by mentioning that if you kid desires to make some fast cash, this is definitely not the route to go! As a professional blogger, I understand from personal experience it requires time and commitment to build your blog site or vlog and ultimately develop an earnings stream.

That stated, I truthfully don’t see a significant drawback to starting a vlog or blog. Kids can develop their writing, oral interaction, video editing, and marketing skills, along with learn the fundamentals of becoming a business owner!

If your kid hasn’t currently, I need to caution you that it’s only a matter of time before they ask the inescapable concern that every tween appears to be asking nowadays: can I have a YouTube channel?! YouTube does require that your child be 13 or have adult grant create a channel. It will also depend on you as a parent to determine the specific criteria of keeping your kid safe on YouTube.

Myself and my other half, for example, chose that if we let our kids start a YouTube channel, we will not permit them to utilize their real 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 parent clearly has different convenience levels regarding online safety for their kids.

Your Future Starts Here

In terms of how to start a blog, all your kid truly requires is select a blog subject they are passionate about. That, and ideally something that they desire to share with the world and/or something they can teach people about. There are some fantastic totally free platforms that enable you to easily create a blog like Wix or Ionos. I know that Wix does need users to be a minimum of 13 years old to develop a website.

Once your child has an established blog site or vlog, they can also market it later their high school or college resume and even in the college application process. Employers are constantly searching for abilities like self-motivation, imagination, drive, and ambition!

# 6: Landscaping Helper

Landscaping helper. This can involve things like raking leaves, pulling weeds, shoveling snow, and other tasks. If your kiddo is active and likes being outside, this might well be the job for them! My suggestion is to make a leaflet and go around to your next-door neighbors with your child, to see if anybody might need some landscaping assistance. As they get older and become more accountable, your kid can branch out and broaden their services.

# 7: Lemonade Salesperson

Lemonade stand. Naturally, I have to discuss the lemonade stand! I do not know that I would consider this as an actual “job” as much as a method to make periodic cash throughout the summer. But this is a terrific very first job for a more youthful kiddo who is feeling motivated to make a little cash and test out their sales and entrepreneurial skills!

# 8: Help in Family Business

Family company. If you are the sole owner of a restaurant or other type of household organization, your 12-year-old kid can operate in many capabilities as long as they aren’t considered unsafe or dangerous. You likewise require to make certain to comply with your state’s kid labor laws concerning the variety of hours and times of days that you child can lawfully work.

That stated, this can be a terrific first work experience for a child. Finding out about the household company first-hand will develop self-confidence, work ethic, and will likewise allow your kid to find out about themselves and their strengths and interests relating to the work world.

# 9: Plant Sitter

Plant sitter. This job is outstanding for kids who are interested in and who love to find out about gardening and plants. Watering plants for neighbors on holiday is also a terrific method to earn earnings while discovering the basics of growing plants, veggies, fruits, and flowers!

# 10: Season Job

Seasonal job. Completing my top 10 tasks for 12-year-olds are seasonal jobs. These jobs can include covering presents throughout the vacations or even assisting out with party planning. If there’s one thing that I know most moms would like is a vacation helper or even a birthday party helper. Am I right ?!

This time of the year, while definitely wonderful, can also be exhausting for parents. Between getting presents, covering presents, embellishing the home, and all the other little stuff, it’s a lot. Your kid, relying on their interests and strengths, could provide their services to good friends and next-door neighbors during the holiday season.

In Conclusion

As you can see, these 10 jobs for 12-year-olds provide great opportunities to explore their interests, develop confidence, and cultivate a strong work ethic. Encouraging your child to try a job at this young age can be an important steppingstone towards their future success.

– What are some popular tasks for 12 year olds?

The most popular tasks for 12 years of age include childcare, animal sitting, yard work, pet dog walking, and mom’s helper.

While 12 year olds are not legally enabled to operate in more traditional roles like those at junk food dining establishments, they can work in a private home setting doing the above mentioned jobs.

– Exist any limitations or limitations on jobs for 12 year olds?

Yes, there are some constraints and constraints on jobs for 12 year olds. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) sets standards for the types of tasks and variety of hours that young workers can carry out. For example, 12 years of age typically can not operate in hazardous occupations or during school hours. It is very important to consult your local and state laws, as well as acquire any necessary authorizations or permissions.

– How can 12 years of age discover job chances?

Here are a few methods for 12 year olds to discover job chances:
– 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 local shops, dining establishments, or recreation center and ask if they have any part-time job openings for young employees.
– Online platforms: Some websites and apps particularly cater to linking young employees with job opportunities. Look for trusted platforms that adhere to labor laws and guidelines.

Remember to constantly prioritize your safety and wellness when thinking about job opportunities, and seek advice from with your parents or guardians before pursuing any employment.

Lee Cristina Beaser

MS, CPRW (Certified Professional Resume Writer).
Lee brings over 20 years of proficiency in directing people towards career success. During her period at San Jose State University, she helped countless students write compelling resumes to land their first jobs and internships. More recently, Lee founded The Career Counter, a platform devoted to providing task applicants with tools and services tailored to their distinct fields and profession goals.

Comment navigation

– Hermione Eldridge

21 hours ago Reply

I am 12 years I have constantly had a lot of love for animals and I was aiming to have a summer task so I was thinking I might be a dogsitter also I am trying to find a task close to me -Kayla Thomas
I was wondering

how numerous jobs I can do trigger I infant sit chickens for complimentary and I have a crochet club but i have not done is just recently, so I was thinking of babysitting but I am uncertain about it.

Hi Kayla,

Thanks for connecting:-RRB-. Seems like you like animals. You might try to make some earnings by using pet-sitting services (you currently have experience, so now you can charge for your services and you can utilize your current company as a recommendation to get you more tasks). Keep doing the crochet club! Seems like a terrific hobby. You never understand … eventually hobbies can turn into earnings also.

Susy

Hello, do you believe I can work at a library I really like books and I can give very excellent suggestions for books and I seem like even kid libraries would be good. What do you believe?

2 weeks ago Reply

Hey there! I like that you have discovered something you love and you desire to try to get a job included with books. First thing I would suggest doing is asking loved ones if anyone has connections to any public libraries or bookstores in your area. You can also visit your library and ask about jobs. There might be an age requirement. If there is and you are not old enough for a job, you can inquire about offering. This is a fantastic 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

3 weeks ago Reply

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

How can I get job

? I have experience in childcare, looking after a pet dog, and I might probably tutor somebody, but my older sister constantly gets those tasks and she will not let me have one; likewise I am sure people would rather have a 16-year-old v. a 12-year-old. Do you have any guidance?

1 month ago Reply

Hello terrific concern thank you for reaching out! Try not to get too stuck on your age. If you do not believe in your capabilities no one else will either (there are great deals of 12-year-olds who are more responsible than 16-year-olds!:-RRB- How about checking to see if your parents or caregivers have any buddies with more youthful kids or family pets? If a household already knows you and knows your moms and dads, there is already some trust there and they will be more most likely to desire to hire you. You could also make some flyers marketing your services and stroll around your street (with a parent or guardian) and ask if anybody requires aid strolling their dog. Start with individuals you already know. After they employ you and you do an aamzing job, you can use these individuals as references for other jobs.

Don’t quit! Keep attempting and you will get an excellent task quickly!

Oakleigh

Do you think assisting my mother in her hair beauty parlor would be all right? If not I may choose up childcare. I have actually got experience, particularly with 5 younger brother or sisters.

Hello and thank you for your concern! I believe helping in your mama’s hair salon would be a fantastic first job. However, you and your mother need to consult the labor laws in your state to make sure you are legally allowed to work there. Many states enable kids to work in the household organization, but there are restrictions (like variety of hours you can work, kind of work you can do, and so on).

Babysitting is always a great choice too. With 5 more youthful siblings, I bet you would be a pro!:-RRB- Dimpho

So this is my very first time however since I currently pet my pet dogs, I think I might be a family pet sitter, am just offered in Eastern Cape hope I will get this task cause.I wish I might animal sit a dog cause I love pets thanks.

2 months ago Reply

Since you already have pet dogs you can definitely utilize that experience to get a job as a dog walker. Start by asking your household, good friends, and next-door neighbors (i.e. individuals who already understand you). After you get some experience, you can utilize them as references to get more jobs. All the best!

Graeson

Can I do backyard work cuss I’m 12

3 months ago Reply

Hi Graeson! Yes you can do yard work. Start by using your services to neightbors and individuals you understand. Once they hire you and trust you, they will likely inform their pals and you can get more organization.

Ellie

Can I do the sitter club because I’m 12

– Lee Beaser

4 months ago Reply

Hello Ellie, babysitting is a terrific job for 12-year olds! I’m unsure which sitter club you are describing, however you can absolutely babysit at 12!

Comment navigation

Leave your comment (Cancel Reply)

Δ

Related Articles

10 Trade Jobs Worth Exploring (and How to Land One)

In a world where traditional four-year college degrees typically dominate the conversation about profession paths, trade tasks are a wonderful yet ignored profession alternative that are worthy of more attention. The truth is that trades professionals perform crucial work that helps society in so numerous methods. For instance, referall.us keeping the lights on, keeping comfy living areas, or …

Top 10 Flexible Law Careers for Moms

If you’re a for children, you likely currently know that stabilizing a career in law with the duties and needs of household can seem like a monumental obstacle. Although I don’t work in the field of law, I have actually got mom friends who do. Many have discovered flexible career paths in law that …

The Future of Automotive Careers: Three Exciting Opportunities to Explore

Are you the type of individual who loves working with your hands, solving issues, and seeing instant outcomes from your efforts? Maybe you’ve constantly taken pleasure in repairing things, taking them apart, and figuring out how they work-or possibly you’re the go-to individual for repairing mechanical problems among your loved ones. If this sounds like you, …

Pharmacist Job Outlook – Trends and Tips

Let’s be honest-when the majority of people consider pharmacists, they think of somebody in a white coat, staring down at a sea of prescription bottles, sometimes asking, “Do you have any questions for the pharmacist today?” However, a career in pharmacy is a lot more than figuring out chicken-scratch physician handwriting!As healthcare progresses, driven by technological improvements, an …

What is Pediatric Nursing (and How to Land a Great Job)

Job markets ebb and flow. But the one sector of the workforce that constantly appears to hold stable? Healthcare. Whether it’s nurses or doctors, health care specialists are constantly in need. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 13% boost in healthcare tasks by 2031-proof that this field isn’t slowing down anytime soon.Of all health care professionals, …

Jobs Helping Kids – Plus Tips to Get Hired

Interested in finding out about tasks helping kids? There are numerous opportunities that involve assisting kids that cover across fields like education, healthcare, arts, and social work. From teaching a kid their first word to mentoring a tween or teenager through challenges, each task chance allows you to make a significant distinction in a kid’s …

Top Jobs in Philanthropy (and How to Land One)

Bill Gates. MacKenzie Scott. Dolly Parton. What do these people have in common? They’re not just multi-billionaires, however likewise philanthropists. Gates may be a tech magnate and the godfather of Microsoft. However, his tradition lies firmly in his humanitarian initiatives, from HIV research study to equitable access to vaccines.Here’s the thing: all of these big names …

Careers That Involve Helping People (and Pay Well Too)

Money or meaning? This option has actually haunted millions of experts. You imagine making a genuine difference. But you can’t because you have a home loan to pay.