Best Jobs for Kids Under 13

Child-friendly jobs to teach responsibility and financial literacy

By

Madison DuPaix

Updated on 07/27/24

There are lots of great jobs for kids under 13 that can empower them and help them mature. After all, at some point, your child may feel that their allowance isn't enough for their spending habits. The pay rates are variable based on your location, the difficulty, and the length of time to complete each job.

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Babysitter

One of the most popular jobs for kids under 13, teens and pre-teens can earn money by babysitting younger children for neighbors and friends. The Red Cross offers classes to prepare 11- to 15-year-olds for babysitting. For younger children, a mother's helper job may be appropriate; the parent remains at home during the babysitting job.

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Pet Sitter

This is often a great starter job for kids. The responsibilities typically include stopping by a neighbor's house to feed an animal a few times per day while the owners are away. They can also offer to bring in the mail and water any houseplants.

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Lemonade Stand

The lemonade stand is usually the first thing that people think of when brainstorming business activities for kids. The price per cup has gone up, but the lessons on a hot summer day are still very valuable for children.

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Lawn Mowing

If your child likes to be outdoors and regularly mows your lawn, this could be a good option for them. Mowing could be done while a homeowner is on vacation, or for an entire summer if they find someone who can't or doesn't like to perform this task. Be sure to determine if your child will use your mower or the homeowner's mower. A great way to get a lawn mowing job for kids is to ask your neighbors if they need the service.

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Yard Work

In addition to mowing the lawn in the summer, there are plenty of chores that homeowners may need assistance with throughout the year. Kids can explore tasks such as snow shoveling, raking leaves, and planting flowers, depending on the season. These jobs can be done alone or together with the homeowner.

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Dog Walker

Another classic job for kids under 13 is dog-walking. If your child loves pets, this can be a great opportunity for both them and the dog to get some exercise. Make sure that your child feels comfortable with the pet before they take them for a walk the first time.

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Paper Route

The perfect job for early risers is delivering the morning paper. Consider a weekly paper if a daily paper would be too time-consuming. Discuss with your child upfront what will happen on a rainy day; otherwise, you may end up regularly driving your child's route.

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Working Retail

Typically this is not a viable job for kids under 13, but the laws vary by state. Check with your local ordinances to determine the minimum age to work and if your child needs a worker's permit. Requirements for worker's permits also vary by state.

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Family Business

This job for kids often works best when you own your own business. You can have your child help with filing papers, mailing letters, and other office work. Also, you can work around their school schedule with flexibility.

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Lifeguard

If your child likes to swim, lifeguarding can be a great summer job for kids. They'll get to spend time outdoors at the beach or the pool. Also, if you have indoor pools in your area, your child can become a lifeguard during the winter months.